News
'I worked my whole life for this moment': Cape Verde goalkeeper, 40, gets man of match against Spain for heroics
Amazing.
June 16, 2026, 09:29 AM
Image from CAFonline/IG
It was a debut to remember for Cape Verde's Vozinha.
The 40-year-old became the oldest player for a nation making their debut in a World Cup, kept a clean sheet, picked up a man of the match, and gained nearly four million followers on Instagram.
He made several heroic saves against Spain, who couldn't find a way past him all game.
Here's a summary of the match:
A visibly emotional Vozinha described the moment as something he has been working to for his entire life.
"I have worked my whole life for this moment, I’m 40 years old. I started playing football professionally when I was 25, in 2012. I thought about leaving but I continued because of this dream. This is for everyone. I was named man of the match but this is for all of my teammates because without them nothing would be possible. I will continue to work for Cape Verde and for the people."
Vozinha plays for Portugese Ligue 2 side, Chaves.
His heroics though could not come in front of his mother, who was unable to get a visa for the game.
According to The Guardian, citizens have to post a returnable bond of up to US$15,000 (S$19,247) before travelling to the U.S., on top of the visa fee.
Vozinha's mother was not able to complete her application.
Speaking after the match, Vozinha said he cried because he grew up with his grandparents, and they couldn't be there because they died a few years ago.
"They were everything for me, everything for my life."
Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha after his man-of-the-match display against Spain:
"I cried after the game because I grew up with my grandparents when I was a kid, and they could not be there. They passed away a few years ago.
"My mum could not be here either for a VISA issue, and… pic.twitter.com/yew6L6bZjW
— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) June 15, 2026
