With an outstanding performance at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, The 40-year-old goalkeeper made seven key saves to keep a clean sheet against a Spanish team that dominated possession, generated numerous dangerous chances and sought victory until the last minute.
Spain had clear opportunities through Ferran Torres, who hit the crossbar, as well as attempts from Mikel Oyarzabal, Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams. However, they all met an inspired Vozinha, who ended up being chosen as one of the great figures of the day.
The veteran who made history
Behind the name that makes headlines today is Josimar José Évora Díaz, born in 1986 and known in the world of football as Vozinha.
The goalkeeper is currently experiencing the most important moment of his career by playing in his first World Cup with Cape Verde, a team that is also making its debut in a World Cup event.
His performance against Spain allowed him to achieve an outstanding mark: his seven interventions represent second most saves made by a 40-year-old goalkeeper or more in a World Cup match since 1966. He is only surpassed by Northern Ireland’s Pat Jennings, who recorded ten saves against Brazil in the 1986 World Cup.
Why is it called Vozinha?
Although he is known internationally by that name, Vozinha explained that his father originally wanted to name him Valdano, in honor of former Argentine soccer player Jorge Valdano.
However, the Cape Verde authorities did not approve that name and it was finally registered as Josimar José Évora Díaz.
The nickname Vozinha arose in the family environment and was adopted by his grandparents, until it became the identity with which he is recognized on and off the courts.
A race between Africa and Europe
The goalkeeper began his professional career in clubs in Cape Verde before making the leap to Angolan football with Progresso Sambizanga.
He subsequently developed a large part of his career in Europe, where he played for teams such as Zimbru Chișinău, Gil Vicente FC, AEL Limassol and AS Trenčín.
He currently plays for GD Chaves, in the Portuguese second division.
Cape Verde reference
Beyond his club career, Vozinha is one of the historical references of the Cape Verdean team.
Since his international debut in 2010, he has played 91 matches for the national team and participated in four editions of the African Cup of Nations.
In addition, he was captain during the historic qualification for the 2026 World Cup, an achievement that he described as one of the most important moments for the country.
“It was a dream of several generations,” the goalkeeper expressed in an interview with ESPN Brazil when remembering the World Cup qualification.
From 40 thousand followers to viral phenomenon
The performance against Spain not only had a sporting impact.
After becoming the hero of the tie, the goalkeeper’s social networks experienced exponential growth. His Instagram account went from approximately 40 thousand followers to more than 1.6 million in a matter of hours, driven by fans around the world who were impressed with its performance.
While Spain will have to react quickly to keep its aspirations in Group H intact, Cape Verde enjoys a result that is already part of its football history. And at the center of that feat appears Vozinha, the veteran goalkeeper who stole the spotlight at the 2026 World Cup.
