
From Banker to World Cup Player: Roberto Lopes’ Unlikely Rise
Roberto Lopes, once a banker in Dublin, answered a call from Cape Verde's coach on LinkedIn, left his job, and now prepares for his nation's first World Cup appearance.
Jun 20, 2026
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Daniel Pepi across Soccer.

Roberto Lopes, once a banker in Dublin, answered a call from Cape Verde's coach on LinkedIn, left his job, and now prepares for his nation's first World Cup appearance.
A look at the journeys of Ricardo Pepi and Alejandro Zendejas, the sacrifices of their families, and the club careers that have positioned them for a breakthrough on soccer’s biggest stage.

At 18, Ricardo Pepi left a modest El Paso trailer for a $10 million move to PSV Eindhoven, embodying the relentless perseverance that drives both elite athletes and business leaders.