Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has become one of the biggest stories of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after his display against Spain, earning global attention and a huge social media surge.
His Instagram following jumped from just over 50,000 before Cape Verde’s opening match against Spain to more than 7.6 million within 24 hours.
Cape Verde held Spain to a 0-0 draw in Atlanta on Monday, earning their first World Cup point. Vozinha made key saves, stopping Spanish stars including Lamine Yamal.
The 40-year-old was named Player of the Match and became one of the tournament’s most talked-about players.
His rise adds to an unusual career. Born in Mindelo, he began pro football late, joining Batuque in 2007 at 25. He later played in Portugal, Angola, Moldova, Cyprus and Slovakia, building a reputation as a reliable keeper outside the spotlight.
His only major club trophy came in 2018/19 with AEL Limassol, winning the Cypriot Cup.
Since 2012, he has been key for Cape Verde and helped them qualify for their first FIFA World Cup.
After the match, he said:
“I’m 40 years old. I thought about leaving football, but I continued because of this dream. This award is for all my teammates because without them, nothing would be possible,” he said.
He became emotional after the match, thinking of family members who could not witness the moment.
His popularity surged after broadcaster CazéTV urged fans to follow him on Instagram, making him one of the tournament’s most recognisable faces.
Cape Verde now face Uruguay in Miami next as he looks to continue their run.
After nearly two decades, his performance against Spain has made him an unlikely World Cup star.
