'From Cape Verde to the world': Vozinha shares heartfelt message ahead of knockout against Argentina

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha shared an emotional note on Instagram ahead of his side's round-of-32 clash against defending champions Argentina at FIFA World Cup 2026, thanking fans from around the world for the overwhelming support he has received.The veteran goalkeeper expressed that he was deeply moved by the global response to Cape Verde's remarkable World Cup campaign.

"I'm still trying to wrap my head around everything that has happened. Seeing millions of people from all corners of the globe reach out like this took me completely by surprise," Vozinha said.He said it would take time for him to fully understand the scale of support and the significance of the moment."I know it will take some time for me to process all of this and fully grasp the magnitude of what I'm experiencing," he said.Vozinha also thanked media platform CazeTV for sharing his story with football fans across the world."I want to thank @cazetv from the bottom of my heart for sparking this wave of affection and for making it all possible. I have no words to express my gratitude," he added.Describing the journey as a humbling experience, Vozinha ended his message by saying:"From Cape Verde to the world--with true humility and a heart full of gratitude."

Cape Verde added another page to the history books by becoming the smallest nation to reach the FIFA World Cup knockout stage. With Three hard-fought draws and three points, the squad finished second in their group below Spain, who topped the standings with seven points.