Cape Verde Goalkeeper Vozinha Says World Cup Fame Cost His Privacy

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha says his breakout performance at the 2026 World Cup has brought unwanted attention and cost him much of his privacy. He says outings now often involve requests for photos or autographs and people filming him, while supporters have also begun visiting his mother at home. His social-media following surged after Cape Verde’s draw with Spain, and he turned off Instagram notifications to limit the influx. Although brands have sought partnerships, he says he accepted only one during the tournament and is avoiding offers connected to tobacco, alcohol and sports betting. Asked whether he preferred his life before or after the tournament, Vozinha said he would choose his old life.
Vozinha made seven saves in Cape Verde’s 0-0 draw with Spain, helping the country reach the knockout stage at its first-ever World Cup.
After the tournament, Vozinha joined Chilean club Colo-Colo as a free agent; his contract runs through the end of 2026 and reportedly extends for another year only if he plays at least half of the club’s available minutes.
Vozinha was named among ten candidates for the Yashin Trophy, awarded to the season’s best goalkeeper.
His Instagram following rose from about 56,000 to more than one million within hours of the Spain match, after Brazilian broadcaster CazéTV urged its audience to follow him.
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