Cape Verde’s goalkeeper, Josimar José Évora Dias, popularly known as Vozinha, has become one of the breakout stars of the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup after his remarkable performance against Spain sparked a social media frenzy, with his Instagram following skyrocketing from just over 50,000 followers to more than 7.6 million in less than 24 hours.
The 40-year-old shot-stopper inspired World Cup debutants Cape Verde to a stunning goalless draw against European champions Spain in Atlanta, securing the island nation’s first-ever point at football’s biggest tournament.
Vozinha produced a string of spectacular saves throughout the encounter, frustrating Spain’s star-studded attack and denying several clear-cut chances, including an effort from teenage sensation Lamine Yamal. His commanding display earned him the Player of the Match award and instantly turned him into one of the tournament’s most celebrated figures.
The veteran goalkeeper’s overnight rise to global fame marked another extraordinary chapter in a career that has defied convention.
Born in Mindelo, Cape Verde, Vozinha did not begin his professional football journey until the age of 25 when he joined local club Batuque in 2007. He later featured for clubs in Portugal, Angola, Moldova, Cyprus and Slovakia, quietly building a reputation as a reliable goalkeeper while largely remaining outside the international spotlight.
His only major club silverware came in the 2018/19 season when he helped AEL Limassol lift the Cypriot Cup.
Despite his modest club career, Vozinha has been a pillar of the Cape Verde national team since 2012 and played an instrumental role in the country’s historic qualification for its maiden FIFA World Cup.
Speaking after the memorable draw, an emotional Vozinha reflected on fulfilling a lifelong ambition.
“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.
His inspiring story quickly resonated with football fans worldwide, while Brazilian broadcaster CazéTV further amplified his popularity by urging viewers to follow him on Instagram.
The response was immediate, transforming Vozinha from a respected international goalkeeper into one of the most recognisable faces of the 2026 World Cup.
With Cape Verde set to face Uruguay in their next Group stage fixture in Miami, the veteran will be aiming to extend his fairytale run and help his nation move closer to a historic place in the knockout rounds.
