Cape Verdean goalkeeper Vozinha has become a social media sensation, with his Instagram following skyrocketing from approximately 50,000 to over seven million following a standout performance against Spain at the World Cup. The 40-year-old's inspiring display in Monday's 0-0 draw in Atlanta saw his online presence surge to 7.6 million by Tuesday afternoon, a remarkable increase that has captivated football fans worldwide.
Vozinha's meteoric rise in online popularity means his Instagram following now surpasses that of many prominent footballers. In a testament to his newfound global recognition, only five England players included in Thomas Tuchel's World Cup squad â Jude Bellingham, Marcus Rashford, Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, and Declan Rice â currently boast a larger social media presence. Speaking to the Men in Blazers podcast, Vozinha expressed his astonishment, stating, "That is insane, I didnât expect that. Things run fast on Instagram, but I didnât believe it. I still donât believe, but it is what it is. Thank you to everyone."
His heroics on the pitch were undeniable, as Vozinha made seven crucial saves to deny Spain, one of the tournament favourites. This masterclass also saw him achieve a unique milestone, becoming the oldest goalkeeper in World Cup history to keep a clean sheet on his tournament debut. Historically, only Pat Jennings, who made 10 saves for Northern Ireland against Brazil in 1986, has made more saves in a World Cup match while over 40 years of age.
Vozinha's viral fame has also brought significant attention to Cape Verde, a nation comprising 10 volcanic islands off the coast of West Africa. With a population of around 500,000, it is the third smallest country by population to ever qualify for a World Cup, highlighting the magnitude of their achievement. The goalkeeper reflected on the broader impact of his team's performance, remarking, "The World Cup is the big stage in the whole of football and it is every kidâs dream to be here one day. When we inspire the next generation it is always good. To hear kids say one day they want to be Vozinha, I am very grateful."
For Dublin-born Shamrock Rovers defender Roberto Lopes, known as Pico, the draw against Spain represented a personal career highlight. He commented, "This is the stuff of dreams for me. Itâs a pleasure and Iâm absolutely privileged to be able to live my dream. I never would have thought it." Lopes also shared an anecdote about attempting to swap shirts with Mikel Oyarzabal, only to be beaten to it by a teammate. He added, "In a competitive environment, itâs really unusual to be celebrating a draw. But I had some time to myself in the dressing room reflecting on it, and that point what that means to us, a first ever point at a World Cup against one of the best teams in the world⦠Itâs a very happy moment for us, and Iâm very proud of this group."
Cape Verde is set to continue their World Cup campaign, facing Uruguay in Miami on Sunday, before their final group stage match against Saudi Arabia on Friday, June 26.