World Cup 2026: Who is Vozinha? The Cabo Verde hero who stopped Spain

Cape Verde’s historic World Cup debut against Spain introduced global audiences to a familiar figure in African football, but one whose name has now gained worldwide attention.

In goal stood Josimar José Évora Dias, a 40-year-old veteran better known by his iconic nickname: Vozinha.

For viewers watching closely on Monday, the name on his shirt may have stood out. But for Cape Verde fans, it is a symbol of identity, resilience, and a long career built far from the global spotlight.

A Name That Means “Voice”

Worn proudly on his back, “Vozinha” translates to “Voice” in English — a fitting nickname for a goalkeeper who has become a leader both on and off the pitch for Cape Verde.

The nickname dates back to his childhood on the island of São Vicente, where he was raised by his grandparents. Speaking to FIFA, he opened up about the personal origins behind the name and the family influence that shaped his early life.

“The nickname is because of my grandparents,” he said. “I never lived with my parents. When I was born, my father was in the military service and my mother had to work hard for something, so I always grew up with my grandparents.”

From Cape Verde to Angola and Beyond

Vozinha’s football journey began far from the World Cup stage. His first move abroad took him to Angola, where he signed for Progresso. It was during this transition that his nickname became a defining part of his professional identity.

He admits it was not always easy embracing it at first.

“No one in Cape Verde knew me like that [by name], but I didn’t like it at first, I went crazy,” he revealed.

“When I arrived in Angola, there was another goalkeeper named Josimar and I said I am not going to put Josimar II on the shirt – if everyone knew me as Vozinha in Cape Verde, that’s what I would be.”

That decision cemented the identity that would follow him throughout his career.

A Veteran of Cape Verde Football

Now 40 years old, Vozinha’s longevity in the game speaks volumes. He made his international debut for Cape Verde 14 years ago and has since accumulated more than 80 appearances for the national team, establishing himself as one of the country’s most experienced players.

His career includes four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, giving him valuable experience on the continental stage long before stepping onto football’s biggest platform.

Despite his age, he remains Cape Verde’s undisputed first-choice goalkeeper and leader from the back.

World Cup Debut and a Statement Performance

The match against Spain marked a major milestone — his first FIFA World Cup appearance. Drawn into a tough Group H alongside Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde entered the tournament as underdogs.

But against Spain, Vozinha showed exactly why he remains so important. His commanding presence and crucial saves helped secure a famous goalless draw, earning him admiration on the global stage.

A Hero’s Rise on the Biggest Stage

From a childhood nickname born in São Vicente to a standout performance against one of the world’s football giants, Vozinha’s story is one of perseverance and identity.

And if his display against Spain is anything to go by, Cape Verde’s veteran goalkeeper may still have more defining moments to deliver on football’s biggest stage.