Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha revealed that his mother was unable to travel to the United States due to visa difficulties after his standout performance in a 0-0 draw against Spain at the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Monday.
Match Overview
Tournament debutants Cape Verde produced a remarkable defensive display to hold world No. 2 and reigning European champions Spain to a goalless draw in Atlanta. Despite being the third-smallest nation by population ever to compete at a FIFA World Cup, Cape Verde defended resolutely, frustrating Spain throughout the contest. The Spaniards fired 27 shots without scoring, the joint-most they have ever attempted in a World Cup match without finding the net, matching their 27-shot tally against Paraguay at the 1998 tournament, which also ended 0-0.
Vozinha's Heroics
Vozinha, 40, emerged as the standout performer, making seven saves in total, including three crucial stops within a six-minute spell in the first half. He tipped over Mikel Oyarzabal's header, caught Ferran Torres' close-range effort, prevented a header from Aymeric Laporte, and denied Mikel Merino and Marc Cucurella from inside the box. He was awarded the Player of the Match honors. He is also the oldest player to appear in the nation's World Cup debut game at 40 years and 12 days.
Personal Challenges
After the match, an emotional Vozinha spoke about his family situation. He was raised by his grandparents, who have since passed away, and his mother could not attend due to visa issues and financial constraints. 'I cried after the game because I grew up with my grandparents when I was a kid, and they could not be there. They passed away a few years ago. My mum could not be here either due to a visa issue and the money we had to pay for it. We did not manage to do this in time,' he said, according to Goal.com.
Message to Supporters
Vozinha thanked supporters in Cape Verde, expressing pride and satisfaction after the result, and praised his teammates for their hard work. 'This is a message of thank you to everybody in Cape Verde. We are very happy after this; this group of players have worked a lot to live this moment. It's a day to be proud and satisfied,' he added.
Other Key Moments
Shamrock Rovers' Pico Lopes pulled off a clutch block in the 88th minute, denying Oyarzabal a winning goal. Cape Verde also had attacking moments, as an unmarked Diney Borges' attempt was blocked by Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simon. Ferran Torres' six-yard strike in the first half hit the post. Despite bringing on teen sensation Lamine Yamal, Spain struggled for answers. The first half saw Spain fire 12 shots, but to no avail.
Spain have now failed to win their last four FIFA World Cup games, their joint-longest winless streak from the 1982 to 1986 editions. The 2010 champions have a point to their name and will face Saudi Arabia on June 21.
