World Cup 2026: Why I cried after holding Spain in opener – Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha broke down in tears after producing a remarkable performance to help his country secure a historic 0-0 draw against Spain in their opening Group H match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 40-year-old shot-stopper was the standout performer as World Cup debutants Cape Verde frustrated one of the tournament favourites, making a series of crucial saves to deny a star-studded Spanish side and earn his nation a memorable point on football’s biggest stage.

While the result represented one of the greatest moments in Cape Verdean football history, Vozinha revealed that his emotional reaction at full-time was driven by more than just the magnitude of the achievement.

The veteran goalkeeper said thoughts of his late grandparents and his mother overwhelmed him after the final whistle.

“I cried because I grew up with my grandparents and unfortunately, they were not here, they died a few years before, and they did everything for me and my life,” 40-year-old Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha said after holding Spain to a 0-0 in Group H opner.

“Also my mum she didn’t manage to be here because of the visa. The money for the visa, we didn’t manage (to do) on time and I would like her to be here.

“But I am very happy and also happy for all the Cape Verdean people.”

Vozinha’s journey to football’s biggest stage has been anything but straightforward. Throughout a career spanning more than two decades, he has played across several countries, including Angola, Moldova, Cyprus, Slovakia and most recently Portugal.

His perseverance and dedication were rewarded with one of the most memorable performances of his international career as he repeatedly denied Spain’s attacking stars to secure a famous result for the African nation.

The draw instantly transformed Vozinha into a global football sensation. Within hours of the match, his popularity skyrocketed as football fans around the world celebrated his heroics.

His Instagram following surged dramatically from around 50,000 followers to more than two million in the aftermath of the game, reflecting the widespread admiration for his performance.

Cape Verde coach Bubista paid tribute to the goalkeeper, praising both his contribution to the national team over the years and his resilience in reaching the World Cup.

“He was overcome with emotion. He has a lot of experience and has given so much to get to this stage. They were tears of resilience,” said Bubista.

“He has spent many years with us. I normally do not like to comment on individuals, but he had a great performance.

“He was the best player on the pitch but I think we were defensively very strong and he is there to help the team.”

Vozinha’s display was central to Cape Verde’s defensive masterclass against a Spanish side packed with world-class talent.

Despite Spain dominating possession and creating numerous opportunities, Cape Verde remained disciplined throughout, with their veteran goalkeeper providing the final line of resistance.

The result has handed the island nation a dream start to their maiden World Cup campaign and boosted hopes of progressing from a challenging Group H.

Attention now turns to Cape Verde’s second group match against Uruguay in Miami on Sunday, where Vozinha and his teammates will attempt to build on their historic achievement and continue one of the tournament’s most captivating stories.