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The LinkedIn Message That Took Pico Lopes to the World Cup
Roberto “Pico” Lopes ignored a LinkedIn message from Cabo Verde for months. Years later, the Irish defender helped the Blue Sharks make World Cup history against Spain, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia and Argentina.
Frank Osborne
Jul 73 min read
Banker, Believer, Blue Shark: Pico Lopes and the Run That Won't Stop
Pico Lopes left a banking career and a part time playing path to become a steady presence in Cabo Verde's World Cup backline, helping shut out Spain in Atlanta. SDH has his story.
Jon Nelson
Jun 163 min read
The Long View: Organization Is Its Own Kind of Talent
Cabo Verde committed one foul in 90 minutes against Spain. They lost the ball in dangerous areas 52 times and still did not concede. The numbers behind the most disciplined defensive performance of the 2026 World Cup.
Jason Longshore
Jun 1511 min read
The Blue Sharks Hold
Cabo Verde held Spain to a 0-0 draw in their first-ever World Cup match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Vozinha, Diney Borges, and the Blue Sharks made history in Atlanta.
Jason Longshore
Jun 155 min read
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