Kevin Lenini
CM
Deep-Lying Playmaker
Jan 27, 1997 (29)
Both
5'11"
176 lb
One shot and solid defense
Pina logged an inaccurate shot, two tackles won, two clearances and one block across 100 minutes during Cape Verde's 3-2 loss Friday to Argentina.
Analysis: For the World Cup, Pina's four appearances respectively include a shot, of which he totaled five and logged one goal. The center-back also recorded at least multiple clearances and won a tackle. Overall, Pina logged 13 clearances, seven tackles won, three interceptions and one block. Along with a point-securing goal against Uruguay, he solidified his team's surprisingly strong defense, which conceded only five goals (three in regulation). In it, Cape Verde never lost any games, the team's tournament loss only because of extra time against a championship-defending Argentina.
Decent output Thursday
Pina generated two shots (zero on goal) and two crosses (zero accurate) in Friday's 0-0 draw versus Saudi Arabia.
Analysis: Pina anchored the midfield for Capo Verde for the third consecutive match, once again serving as the central link in nearly every phase of play. He already has a World Cup goal to his name, produced four shots with one on target, completed three successful dribbles, won 16 duels, and added 11 clearances, an all‑around contribution that reflects both his work rate and versatility. The midfielder, who features for FC Krasnodar in Russia, remains an essential presence for Capo Verde as they prepare for their toughest challenge yet: a Round of 32 showdown with Argentina on July 3.
Scores stunning free kick
Pina scored one goal to go with one shot (one on goal) and two chances created in Sunday's 2-2 draw against Uruguay. He was subbed off due to injury in the 71st minute.
Analysis: Pina etched his name into Cape Verdean soccer history by opening the scoring in the 21st minute, blasting a long-range free kick through Uruguay's two-man wall and into the bottom corner for Cape Verde's first-ever World Cup goal, putting the Tubaroes Azuis in front before Uruguay stormed back later in the first half. He remained a key presence in midfield throughout the match, chipping in with two chances created, two tackles won, one interception and three clearances. No matter how Cape Verde's group-stage campaign ends, Pina's landmark strike will stand as one of the defining moments of the nation's World Cup debut.
Scores opener against Uruguay
Pina scored one goal to go with one shot (one on goal) and two chances created in Sunday's 2-2 draw against Uruguay.
Analysis: Pina notched the first goal in Cape Verde's World Cup history with a low free-kick shot from great distance in the 21st minute of the match. He also made several contributions all around the pitch, ranking third on the team with six duels won. It was his second consecutive start, and he continued to get involved mostly in ball recovery tasks while holding offensive upside from creative efforts and direct set pieces.
Makes World Cup debut
Pina recorded one shot (zero on goal) in Monday's 0-0 draw against Spain.
Analysis: Pina played the full 90 minutes in Cape Verde's scoreless draw against Spain, recording four clearances, an interception and a tackle from his holding midfield role. Stationed in front of the back line for most of the contest, he was tasked with tracking back to maintain a five man back line and protecting the central spaces. His positional discipline and work rate helped Cape Verde secure a clean sheet on their World Cup debut.
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