National hero? Cape Verde President says goalkeeper Vozinha deserves a STATUE

Cape Verde President José Maria Pereira Neves has thrown his support behind growing calls for veteran goalkeeper Vozinha to be honoured with a statue following his heroic display at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Cape Verdean leader took to his official Facebook page on Monday to share a fan-created image depicting a statue of the national team captain recreating one of his trademark saves.

“A Cape Verdean proposed this to me, a statue! I think he deserves it!” the President wrote, endorsing the tribute proposal for one of the country’s most celebrated footballers.

The post came less than 24 hours after Vozinha delivered a sensational performance to help Cape Verde secure a historic 0-0 draw against Spain in their opening Group H match of the World Cup.

The 40-year-old goalkeeper was named Man of the Match after producing a series of outstanding saves to frustrate the former world champions.

Time and again, Vozinha stood tall against Spain’s attacking stars, preserving Cape Verde’s clean sheet and earning widespread praise from supporters and football observers around the globe.

His commanding display ensured that the Blue Sharks claimed one of the most memorable results in their football history, with many describing it as one of the greatest individual performances by an African goalkeeper at the tournament so far.

Vozinha has long been regarded as a symbol of Cape Verdean football.

Over the years, he has played a pivotal role in the nation’s rise on the international stage, featuring prominently in Africa Cup of Nations campaigns and helping establish the island nation as a competitive force in world football.

His leadership, consistency and commitment have made him a beloved figure among Cape Verdean supporters, while his performance against Spain has further cemented his legendary status.

Although there are currently no official plans to erect a statue, the President’s public endorsement reflects the enormous respect and admiration Vozinha commands in his homeland.

For many Cape Verdeans, the veteran goalkeeper’s World Cup heroics have already secured his place among the country’s greatest sporting icons.

Whether a statue is eventually built or not, Vozinha’s name will forever be remembered as one of the figures who helped put Cape Verde football on the global map.