Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha became an overnight sensation after his emotional tears and stellar performance in a 0-0 World Cup draw against Spain. Here is everything you need to know about the 40-year-old shot-stopper.
What is Vozinha's full name?
The goalkeeper's full name is Josimar Jose Evora Dias. He is better known as Vozinha, which translates to 'little voice' or colloquially 'little grandmother'. He was named after Brazilian 1986 World Cup defender Josimar, having been born during that tournament.
Which clubs has Vozinha played for?
His extensive professional club journey began in 2007 with home-based teams Batuque FC and CS Mindelense in Cape Verde. He later played for Progresso Associacao do Sambizanga in Angola, Zimbru Chisinau in Moldova, Gil Vicente in Portugal, AEL Limassol in Cyprus, and AS Trencin in Slovakia. He is now back in Portugal with GD Chaves.
Why does he play for Cape Verde?
Unlike some teammates born overseas, Vozinha was born in Mindelo on the island of Sao Vicente in Cape Verde. He grew up watching local players leave the former Portuguese colony to pursue European careers, fueling his dream to put his island nation on the global football map.
What debut record did Vozinha set?
He made history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup by becoming the oldest player to feature in a nation's debut match at the tournament. At exactly 40 years and 12 days old, he shattered a record set just two days earlier by Curacao's 37-year-old goalkeeper Eloy Room.
How many saves did Vozinha make against Spain?
The veteran produced a world-class performance with seven crucial saves to hold a star-studded Spanish side at bay. His sharp reflexes and perfect positioning frustrated the European champions' attack, securing a historic 0-0 draw.
What did he say after the 0-0 draw with Spain?
“I have worked my whole life for this moment,” Vozinha said in emotional post-match comments. He added: “I thought about leaving but I continued because of this dream.”
What have people said about him?
“Vozinha is man of the match for me, some great saves - we got lucky sometimes but yesterday was tremendous,” former Cape Verde international Georges Santos told The BBC. “He brought his experience his calmness.”
How many social media followers does Vozinha have?
After his spectacular performance, his digital presence exploded. A campaign by Brazilian YouTuber CazeTV helped him surpass 1.5 million Instagram followers in hours, with the number standing at 5.8 million at the time of writing.
Who do Cape Verde play next?
Vozinha and his teammates face Uruguay on Sunday, with a chance to move closer to the knockout stages. Their final group game is against Saudi Arabia on June 27.
