Bohemians have a proud history of developing talent, and one of their notable alumni, Roberto 'Pico' Lopes, is set to make his World Cup debut. The 33-year-old defender will represent Cape Verde in their opening match against Spain on Monday evening. Lopes, who played over 150 matches for Bohemians during a seven-season tenure, has transitioned from the League of Ireland to the global stage, showcasing the club's ability to nurture players who can compete internationally. Growing up in Crumlin, Lopes was inspired by his family's football legacy, with his father Carlos hailing from Cape Verde. This connection has fueled Lopes' passion for the sport and his journey to the World Cup. After his time with Bohemians, Lopes joined Shamrock Rovers, where he has made significant contributions, including winning four League of Ireland titles and serving as team captain. His international career took off when he switched allegiance to Cape Verde, culminating in their qualification for the FIFA World Cup after a strong performance in the Africa Cup of Nations. As he steps onto the pitch in Atlanta, Lopes embodies the spirit of Bohemians and the potential of players from the League of Ireland to shine on the world stage.