While the entirety of the Cape Verde team have captured the hearts and minds of the public during the World Cup 2026, there are few stories like goalkeeper Vozinha’s.
The 40-year-old was a free agent heading into the tournament after leaving Portuguese second tier side Chaves but made headlines with his performance against Spain in the group stages.
Millions of soccer fans started to become familiar with Vozinha, who played very well as they claimed a shock draw against the European champions.
His heroics continued throughout the group stages and into the last 32, where he denied Lionel Messi with a fine save during a dramatic 3-2 win for Argentina over Cape Verde.
Their story in this year’s World Cup is now over after that defeat but Vozinha’s life as a genuine celebrity of the sport is only just starting.
Vozinha gained over 20 million followers on Instagram
Before a ball was kicked in the tournament, Vozinha had around 50,000 followers on Instagram.
Now, Vozinha’s Instagram profile is followed by a stunning 21.5 million people. It is a remarkable story and a reminder that even in an age where fans have so much information at their fingertips, stars can still emerge relatively out of nowhere.
The goalkeeper’s real name is Josimar Jose Evora Dias and he has been playing for his country since 2012, amassing a whopping 94 caps.
Cape Verde have been one of the most remarkable stories in World Cup history. They have made a significant impact at this year’s tournament and fans will no doubt be desperate for them to return in 2030.
Though Argentina ultimately found a way past them in the round of 32, they took the world champions to the very brink and Vozinha certainly played a huge part in that.
Quite where he goes from here remains to be seen but his life has been changed forever.
Read more:
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World Cup fans disappointed after Lionel Messi is awarded man of the match vs. Cape Verde
Cape Verde’s Vozinha overtakes Cristiano Ronaldo in a key World Cup knockout stat
