The Cape Verde defender helped his side take Argentina to extra time in the World Cup round of 32 stage.14:05, 04 Jul 2026Cape Verde star Pico Lopes cut short an interview as he became visibly emotional following the nation's heartbreaking World Cup exit. The African island nation pushed Argentina to their absolute limits in their round of 32 clash, with the reigning champions requiring a late extra-time winner to see off their spirited opponents.‌In what marks their maiden World Cup finals appearance, Cape Verde secured their knockout stage berth with draws against Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia in the group stage, Despite falling behind on two separate occasions against Argentina, spearheaded by Lionel Messi, the side fought back, with Sidny Lopes Cabral delivering one of the tournament's standout moments through his spectacular strike to level at 2-2 in extra time.‌Cape Verde endured crushing late disappointment when an own goal sealed a 3-2 victory for Argentina. Yet the nation have won widespread admiration for their displays throughout the competition.‌JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Latest news, analysis and much more on Mirror Football's Facebook pageAmong the team's most compelling stories is that of Roberto 'Pico' Lopes. The centre-back was born in Ireland but qualifies for Cape Verde through his father.Speaking to the BBC following the match, he remarked: "We said coming into this tournament that we wanted to make history, we wanted to show that we deserve to be here, and I think overall that we showed we're more than capable of competing with some of the best teams in the world."‌A decade ago, the centre-back was employed as a mortgage adviser. He also came to play for Cape Verde after receiving a message via the social media site LinkedIn.When questioned about his own personal journey, he said: "Yeah, look, I try to stay in the moment as much as I can. Like, I think there will be a time for me to reflect, but it's been amazing, as I say, but my sort of ambition, my dream was just to work hard every day and try and get better, try to get that little bit better.‌"And the fact that where I was ten years (ago), to where I am now, though, there's a little bit of pride there as well because.."He then becomes visibly moved and says, "I'm going to stop," before stepping away from the interview.His club, Shamrock Rovers, reacted to the interview with a straightforward post that read: "proud," accompanied by a green heart emoji.‌He was also backed by supporters on social media. "No Pico no party, what an absolute hero! He deserves it all.." one posted.A second commented: "Incredible @picolopes Absolute hero." A third remarked: "That got me. Well done to this man. Bringing genuine excitement to 2 countries. And no more than he deserved.""What a gentleman deserves all the plaudits, what a performance at the World Cup @picolopes," a fourth stated.Article continues belowLopes made his first appearance for his country back in 2019, with the match against Argentina marking his 49th cap for the nation. He featured for every single minute of the World Cup, and is set to receive a hero's welcome when he returns to both Cape Verde and Ireland.Get the latest World Cup news straight to your inbox by signing up to our Make Football Great Again newsletter now!