Cape Verde defender Sidny Lopes Cabral has completed a move to Portuguese Primeira Liga side Estrela da Amadora, signing a three-year contract that will keep him at the club until June 2028.
The 22-year-old joins from German third-tier outfit FC Viktoria Köln, marking a significant step up in his young career.
Estrela da Amadora confirmed the signing in an official statement, welcoming the promising defender to their ranks ahead of the upcoming campaign.
Lopes Cabral’s transfer signals a pivotal new chapter for the Praia-born player, who is beginning to attract attention both domestically and internationally.
After emerging as a standout performer in Germany’s 3. Liga, his shift to top-tier Portuguese football is widely seen as an opportunity to further develop his talent and establish himself on a bigger stage.
“This is a new challenge I am very excited about,” Lopes Cabral said through the club’s media. “Joining Estrela da Amadora and playing in the Portuguese first division is a big step in my career.”
The move also coincides with a revival in his international prospects.
Lopes Cabral made his debut for Cape Verde in October 2023 but had not featured again until the June 2025 international window.
He returned to the squad and made two appearances during the most recent camp — including a start in which he found the back of the net, earning praise for both his defensive composure and attacking contribution.
His growing influence on the national stage has come at a crucial time, with Cape Verde preparing for a string of competitive fixtures and looking to build a squad for the future.
Lopes Cabral’s performances have not gone unnoticed, with many seeing him as a potential long-term figure in the heart of the Blue Sharks’ defence.
The timing of his transfer offers a boost not only to Estrela da Amadora but also to Cape Verde, whose pool of players competing in top European leagues continues to expand.
With the Primeira Liga known for its competitive edge and emphasis on technical quality, the move could serve as an ideal environment for Lopes Cabral to mature and showcase his full potential.
For now, all eyes will be on how the young defender settles into life in Portugal and whether he can translate his recent momentum into consistent performances at the highest level.
