World Cup 2026: ‘Vozinha deserves all the positive things’ – Ex-coach Rui Aguas hails Cape Verde hero

Former Cape Verde coach Rui Águas has hailed veteran goalkeeper Vozinha as one of the key figures behind the nation’s remarkable World Cup campaign, describing him as both an outstanding footballer and an exceptional person.

The Blue Sharks head into their crucial Group H clash with Saudi Arabia knowing victory could secure a place in the knockout stages after eye-catching performances against Spain and Uruguay.

Vozinha has emerged as one of the tournament’s standout performers, particularly after his heroics in Cape Verde’s goalless draw with Spain.

Águas, who worked closely with the goalkeeper during his time in charge of the national team, believes the experienced shot-stopper deserves all the recognition he is receiving.

“What can I say about Vozinha?” Águas said.

“He is not only a great goalkeeper, but above all, he is a genuinely good man.”

The former coach insisted the veteran’s contributions have been vital to Cape Verde’s success and highlighted his display against Spain as a defining moment in the team’s campaign.

“He fully deserves all the positive things happening to him right now,” Águas added.

“His performance was absolutely crucial in securing the draw against Spain.”

Vozinha’s displays have helped transform Cape Verde from tournament outsiders into genuine contenders for a place in the knockout rounds, with the team earning widespread praise for its discipline, resilience and organisation.

Attention is now turning to the decisive meeting with Saudi Arabia, a match Águas expects to be one of the most important in the nation’s football history.

“Everything is possible now,” he said.

“At the beginning, we thought that Saudi Arabia was our main rival, and now it’s true.”

While Saudi Arabia have struggled for consistency during the tournament, Águas warned against underestimating the Asian side.

“The Saudis want the same thing as we want,” he said.

“You have to respect them and try to be the better team.”

For Cape Verde, another positive result would mark the latest chapter in a stunning World Cup journey. For Vozinha, it could provide another opportunity to cement his status as one of the faces of a team that has captured the imagination of football fans around the world.