Mom: Lopes Ready for Messi Test
Cape Verde defender's mother Judy insists he will relish facing Lionel Messi in the World Cup last-16.

Cape Verde defender Roberto Lopes’ mother Judy insists her son will ‘relish the challenge’ of facing Lionel Messi in Friday’s World Cup last-16 clash, praising his composure under pressure and tournament experience despite Cape Verde’s underdog status. Cape Verde, the smallest nation to reach the knockout stages, prepares to face Argentina and Messi’s relentless attack in a match that defines the tournament's knockout volatility. Judy Lopes’ words reflect the David vs Goliath narrative as her son prepares for the high-stakes match, emphasizing mental fortitude over star power.



















