What Has Happened to Vozinha and His Family Since the World Cup

Vozinha became one of the breakout stars of the 2026 World Cup, but the Cape Verde goalkeeper has admitted he would rather have his old life back.

The 40-year-old was one of the more unexpected stars after making seven saves in a 0-0 draw with eventual champions Spain in Cape Verde’s first-ever World Cup match, and went on to help the island nation reach the knockout stage.

His Instagram following jumped from 56,000 to more than a million by the end of the Spain game, after Brazilian broadcaster CazéTV encouraged its audience to follow him, yet it has proven to be a difficult time.

‘I’ve Lost My Peace’

Speaking to The Observer, Vozinha explained how dramatically his life has changed.

“I’ve lost my peace and tranquillity,” he said. “I no longer have any privacy, or at least much less than I used to. Now I go out, I go to a restaurant, and there’s always someone who wants to take a photo with me or asks me for an autograph. Or, worse, someone is filming me.”

He added: “To be honest, if I were offered the life I have today or the life I had before, I’d choose the one I had before.”

The attention has spread to his family. The Observer reports that supporters turn up at his mother’s home in Cape Verde every day, asking for photos or a chat. “I’m not there, so I can’t help them,” Vozinha said. “They have to learn to live with the situation and set boundaries.”

Colo-Colo Contract Clause

REUTERS/Amanda Perobelli

On the pitch, things have not been straightforward either. Vozinha was a free agent at the time of his fame, and opted to leave Portuguese second-tier side Chaves to join Chilean giants Colo-Colo after the tournament, but his deal only runs until the end of 2026.

According to Chilean outlets La Tercera and Emol, the contract extends automatically for another year only if he plays at least half of the club’s available minutes. If he falls short, Colo-Colo can let him leave at no cost. He has kept clean sheets, but has faced criticism over his handling.

Vozinha Hit By Cape Verde Error

His return to international duty also went badly. Vozinha was at fault for Mali’s third goal in a 3-1 defeat in 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying, coming off his line poorly and leaving the ball loose for Dorgeles Nene to score.

Spanish newspaper AS described the result as a “golpe de realidad”, a reality check, for Cape Verde. As Frank Sinatra sang, that’s life.

Vozinha Bounces Back to Secure Title

Action Images via Reuters/Matthew Childs

Just weeks after missing out on the Yashin Award at the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony, Vozinha proved he’s still got plenty to give to the sport. In November, the veteran helped Colo Colo to the Chilean title.

After sealing the trophy, the Cape Verde international dedicated the triumph to his family and country. He said: “Today is a day for celebrating; we’ll talk about the future later. This title is for my entire family and for Cape Verde.”