In the opening round of the FIFA World Cup, Spain were held to a shock 0-0 draw by Cape Verde. Vozinha, the 40-year-old Cape Verde goalkeeper, delivered a stellar performance with seven saves throughout the fixture.
Thanks to his outstanding display, Vozinha led Cape Verde to claim the nation’s first ever point at a World Cup.
According to Transfermarkt, Vozinha’s market value stands at just €50,000, while Spain’s starting eleven for this game carry a combined market value of €520 million, and Spain’s starting goalkeeper Unai Simon is valued at €22 million on Transfermarkt. Vozinha plays for Chaves in Portugal’s Liga Portugal 2. He was the club’s first-choice goalkeeper for much of this campaign, featuring 19 times and keeping six clean sheets.
After the final whistle, Vozinha collected his man-of-the-match award and spoke to reporters in the mixed zone, opening up about why he shed tears post-game: “I cried because my grandparents raised me, yet they could not be here to witness this moment—they have passed away. My mother was also unable to travel over. She could not get a visa, and the visa process costs a great deal of money; we simply could not sort it out in time.”
He also gave an on-pitch interview shortly after the match.
Match Comments
Vozinha: We have sacrificed so much for this moment, and we have turned our dream into reality. Every single player gave everything they had, and we are absolutely overjoyed. We knew this fixture would be extremely tough, as Spain rank among the world’s top national teams, yet we leave with a draw. I believe we can be proud of this result, and we must keep putting in the hard work moving forward.
You looked incredibly composed between the sticks. That sense of security you provide in goal is vital for instilling confidence across the whole team, isn’t it?
Vozinha: Yes, absolutely. I have dreamed of this moment my entire life and dedicated every day to reaching a stage like this. I am delighted to finally stand here and contribute to my side with all my experience.
One last question: What does it mean to you to hear Cape Verde supporters chanting your name inside this stadium in Atlanta, USA?
Vozinha: It is incredibly heartwarming, truly moving. I feel immense joy, and I want to thank everyone who travelled to the stadium today, alongside all Cape Verdeans across the globe.
