The ceremony recognized his substantial contributions to the promotion and development of football on the island.
Albino Lopes was celebrated for his significant legacy, particularly in sports, where under his leadership, both male and female teams from Sal won national titles. This success elevated Sal’s status as one of the premier sports regions in the country.
Paulo Santos, Vice President of the Cape Verdean Football Federation, remarked at the event, “Speaking of Albino is to speak of someone who dedicated his life to the things he loved.
I first met Albino in youth associations, and then we crossed paths in football.
He had a long history in associations and civic life in Sal.
He was an athlete, a sports director at a club, a municipal deputy, a national deputy, and, most recently, president of the Sal Regional Football Federation.”
Santos further highlighted that Albino brought Sal’s football to unprecedented levels.
“Today, we can confidently say that the Sal Regional Association is one of the best-organized in the country, largely due to Albino’s determination, willpower, and leadership abilities,” he added.
He also noted that numerous national and international competitions were held on the island, a testament to Albino’s organizational skills.
Santos expressed optimism that Albino’s successors would continue his legacy, ensuring its endurance over time.
Júlio Lopes, the President of Sal’s Municipal Chamber, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the fairness of the tribute.
“Honoring someone is just when that person has made significant contributions for the benefit of the community.
Albino made an invaluable contribution, recognized by all, to the football ecosystem created here in Sal, which elevated the quality of football on the island,” he said.
He also acknowledged the support provided by the Federation and the municipality in terms of infrastructure and training, which enabled Albino to perform his duties effectively.
The tribute included a ceremony at the Salão Nobre of the City Hall, where the municipality and the Cape Verdean Football Federation unveiled a plaque bearing Albino Lopes’ name at the seven-a-side football field in the Espargos training center.
Elvis Lopes, Albino’s son, described the honor as bittersweet but expressed gratitude for the recognition given to his father.
“Albino lived for football, and until his last days, he was always concerned about the teams of Sal and the progress of the championship,” he noted.
Elvis Lopes also called for the continuation of his father’s work, urging the community to carry forward the legacy left by Albino Lopes.
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