Trabzonspor defender Sidney Lopes Cabral shines in World Cup draw with Spain

Sidney Lopes Cabral, a 23‑year‑old defender newly signed by Turkish club Trabzonspor, featured for the "Yeşil Burun Adaları" side in the 2026 FIFA World Cup group match against Spain. He started the game, received a yellow card and was substituted in the 76th minute, but his defensive work earned praise. Cabral recorded two tackles, three interceptions, three headed clearances and four clearances, totalling nine successful defensive actions. He also won five of ten duels and completed 17 passes with an 82 % accuracy rate.

Club officials compared him to Ousmane Dembélé, with one comment noting, "Trabzonspor may have found its Ousmane Dembélé," and another stating, "If he played for an Anatolian club, he could contribute 15 goals." Cabral’s performance helped Turkey secure a 0‑0 draw, earning him a place among the team’s top three performers in the match and generating optimism among Trabzonspor supporters for the upcoming season.