Cabo Verde goalkeeper Vozinha faced reporters with a mix of joy and emotion after his team’s historic 0-0 draw against Spain, their first game in a FIFA World Cup. At 40 years old, Vozinha delivered a remarkable performance that helped secure this incredible milestone for the African island nation, yet his thoughts quickly moved to his family.
Tears filled his eyes as he shared why the moment was so special. “I cried because I grew up with my grandparents, and unfortunately, they are not here anymore; they passed away a few years ago. They meant everything to me,” he said. Vozinha also expressed sadness that his mother couldn’t be there due to visa issues.
His journey to this moment has been a long and unique one. Known in daily life as Josimar Jose Evora Dias, Vozinha has spent over a decade protecting Cabo Verde’s goal. He was already a seasoned international player while many of his teammates were just starting their careers, symbolizing the growth of Cabo Verdean football.
Vozinha’s path to the World Cup was not typical. Unlike many professional athletes, he didn’t start his career until the age of 25, and there were times he thought about quitting. Nonetheless, his determination led him to turn dreams into reality when Cabo Verde qualified for its first World Cup.
During the match against Spain, Vozinha’s skills shone through. Facing one of the top teams in the tournament, he showcased a series of impressive saves that earned his nation its first-ever World Cup point. The achievement was celebrated both in Cabo Verde and among communities abroad.
For a country with a population of just over half a million, reaching the World Cup was significant. The draw with Spain added a cherished moment to the nation’s sporting history.
While Vozinha gained recognition for his performance on the field, another touching story unfolded off the pitch. His mother, Ana Candida Evora, watched from Sao Vicente, unable to travel due to visa-related difficulties. A house cleaner, she cheered on her son as he played, later expressing pride in his abilities: “I told everyone no ball would go into his goal, and that’s exactly what happened. I’m so proud to be Vozinha’s mom.”
Fortune smiled on her later when she secured a visa and flew to the United States to support her son, thanks to help from Chinese businessman Lin Jie, who has lived in Cabo Verde for over two decades.
Vozinha’s World Cup journey has brought him accolades beyond what many could have predicted early in his career. Yet his story goes beyond football; it’s about determination, family bonds, and never giving up on dreams. Through his recent accomplishments, he serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of perseverance for the people of Cabo Verde.
