Spain began their World Cup campaign with a result few expected.
Their 0-0 draw against Cape Verde on Monday came with context, as Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams were not starters for most of the game, but that should not shrink the scale of Cape Verde’s achievement.
This was their first World Cup match ever, and Vozinha made sure it became even more historic. The 40-year-old goalkeeper was central to a night Spain could not break through.
Who is Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha?
Vozinha’s full name is Josimar Jose Evora Dias, and he is already one of Cape Verde’s biggest football idols.
He turned 40 shortly before the tournament, making him one of the oldest players at the World Cup, and the Spain game was his 90th appearance for the national team.
His nickname means “little grandma” in Portuguese, but it is not about his own age. Vozinha has explained that it came from being raised by his grandparents on the island of Sao Vicente, after growing up away from his parents.
He is currently without a club after leaving Portuguese side Chaves before the World Cup, and it would not be a shock if his level in the tournament translates into a new contract soon.
Vozinha became a worldwide sensation after Cape Verde’s debut. He started the game with 50k followers on Instagram and has already surpassed 1.2 million after the final whistle.
Vozinha gives Spain a night to forget
Vozinha’s story mattered even more because of how he performed.
According to SofaScore, he made seven saves in the draw, with six coming from shots inside the box. He also prevented 1.46 goals based on the expected goals model.
That was not only shot-stopping. Vozinha completed 10 of his 23 long balls, giving Cape Verde an outlet when Spain pinned them back.
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