Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has attracted widespread attention following his standout performance in the national team’s goalless draw against Spain at the 2022 World Cup. The 40-year-old’s remarkable display in Atlanta, where he made seven vital saves to deny the reigning European champions, has propelled his social media following from around 50,000 to over nine million on Instagram.

Vozinha’s seven saves rank among the highest ever recorded by a goalkeeper aged over 40 in a World Cup match, with only Northern Ireland’s Pat Jennings having made more at this stage—ten saves against Brazil in 1986. Additionally, Vozinha became the oldest goalkeeper in World Cup history to keep a clean sheet on his debut.

The match marked a historic moment for Cape Verde, a nation composed of ten volcanic islands off the west coast of Africa with a population of approximately 500,000. The country is the third smallest by population to qualify for the World Cup, underscoring the significance of their achievement.

In response to his sudden surge in popularity, Vozinha expressed surprise and gratitude. “That is insane, I didn’t expect it,” he said. “Things run fast on Instagram but I didn’t believe it. I still don’t believe but it is what it is.” He emphasized the inspiration the tournament brings to young players, noting, “The World Cup is the biggest stage in the whole of football and it is every kid’s dream to be here. When we inspire the next generation it is always good. To hear kids say one day they want to be Vozinha, I’m grateful.”

Cape Verde, widely regarded as underdogs in their group, are set to face Uruguay in Miami on Sunday night as they seek to build on their impressive showing against Spain.