Cape Verde defender Roberto "Pico" Lopes scores and continues strong form with Shamrock Rovers

Shamrock Rovers captain Roberto Lopes goes in for a challenge. Photo: Shamrock Rovers

When it comes to dependable and solid form for club and country, there may not be a player who fits this description better than Shamrock Rovers and Cape Verde national team Roberto Lopes. "Pico" was on the scoresheet for the League of Ireland Premier League Premier Division leaders in Friday's 4-1 victory over Cork City.

Lopes doubled the advantage for Rovers, who took an early lead against last place Cork City and never looked back. 16-year-old Rovers forward Michael Noonan completed his brace soon after and it was 3-0 at the half, moving last season's runners-up eleven points clear of closest contenders Drogheda United.

The lead was safe enough to substitute Lopes at halftime after scoring his second goal of the season. The 33-year-old has yet to miss a league match for Rovers, who are looking to return to the top after a streak of four consecutive titles was snapped last season by Shelbourne.

Pico also remains one of the leaders of a Cape Verde national side that are making a serious push for a maiden qualification for the FIFA World Cup. The Blue Sharks currently lead their qualifying group by a point with plenty of work remaining in a tough group that includes Cameroon, Libya and Angola. Lopes continues to be an important team leader as Cape Verde attempts to atone for missing out on the finals of the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Shamrock Rovers will next face Bohemians, Lopes' former club, away on Monday. Pico has now made over 300 appearances in all competitions for Rovers and will look to keep them on track for a 22nd Irish top flight title.