The 2026 World Cup is producing unexpected heroes. Holding his own against a tournament favourite like Spain, Cabo Verde's 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha has become one of the most talked-about names of the tournament. So who is Vozinha, and where is Cabo Verde?
Who is Vozinha?
Real name Josimar Dias, Vozinha is a Cabo Verdean goalkeeper born on 3 June 1986. The 40-year-old veteran plays for Chaves in Portugal's second tier (Liga Portugal 2). He has represented the Cabo Verde national team since 2012 and is his country's first-choice keeper. Over his career he has also played for clubs in Angola, Moldova, Portugal and Cyprus, and featured at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2013, 2015, 2021 and 2023.
A historic debut at 40
For Vozinha, the 2026 World Cup is the peak of his career. At 40 years and 12 days old, he became the second-oldest player to make his debut at a men's World Cup. Against Spain he produced a string of saves (four in the first half, up to six in the match), keeping the European champions at bay for long stretches. This tournament is reported to be the final chapter of his international career — making his performance on the island of São Vicente all the more meaningful.
Where is Cabo Verde?
Cabo Verde (also known in English as Cape Verde) is an island nation in the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of West Africa. Lying about 600 km west of Senegal, the archipelago is made up of ten islands with a total population of roughly 500,000. That makes Cabo Verde the second-smallest nation ever to appear at a World Cup.
Due to its Portuguese colonial past, the official language is Portuguese, while Kabuverdianu (Cape Verdean Creole) is widely spoken. Known for its music — especially the morna genre and the world-famous singer Cesária Évora — the country is now making a name for itself in football too.
The rise of the "Blue Sharks"
Nicknamed the "Blue Sharks" (Tubarões Azuis), Cabo Verde are appearing at a World Cup for the first time. Their qualifying run and pre-tournament 3-0 wins over Serbia and Bermuda gave the team real confidence. Ranked 67th by FIFA, this small island nation sharing the pitch with global giants adds a new chapter to football's "small but mighty" stories.
Why the interest?
The story of Vozinha and Cabo Verde is a reminder of football's most beloved side: a country with limited resources and a small population standing tall on the biggest stage through determination and team spirit. A 40-year-old goalkeeper battling world stars tells a story that goes beyond age or means.
Note: Information is based on FIFA, ESPN, AP and international sports sources. This content is a player and country profile; it does not include a live match result. Amedspor News reports neutrally.