Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has become one of the breakout stars of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after his heroic performance against Spain sparked an extraordinary surge in his social media following.
The veteran shot-stopper, whose real name is Josimar Dias, saw his Instagram account explode from around 45,000 followers to more than 2.7 million after helping Cape Verde secure a historic 0-0 draw in their first-ever World Cup match.
The 40-year-old produced a string of outstanding saves to deny tournament favourites Spain, earning FIFA’s Man of the Match award and writing his name into the history books as the oldest goalkeeper to keep a clean sheet in a World Cup match.
Spain dominated proceedings, registering 27 shots, including seven on target, while generating an expected goals (xG) figure of 2.10. However, they found no way past the inspired Cape Verde captain.
Vozinha’s performance ensured the Blue Sharks collected the first World Cup point in the nation’s history and one of the biggest results ever achieved by the African island nation.
The goalkeeper’s display quickly went viral on social media, with football fans around the world rushing to follow his Instagram account. His follower count surpassed two million within hours of the final whistle.
Asked about the remarkable increase in popularity after the match, Vozinha could only smile.
“Crazy,” he said.
The goalkeeper has represented Cape Verde since 2012 and currently plays for Portuguese second-division side GD Chaves.
His remarkable performance against Spain has not only elevated his status among Cape Verde supporters but also introduced him to millions of football fans worldwide, making him one of the unexpected stars of the tournament’s opening week.
Cape Verde will now look to build on their historic result when they face Saudi Arabia in their second Group H match before concluding the group stage against Uruguay.
