World Cup 2026: From the tournament's sensation to the knockout stage dream

Inspiring that dream is veteran goalkeeper Josimar José Évora Dias (Vozinha). At age 40, he has not only become a pillar in defense but also a symbol of Cape Verde's ambition to overcome limits.

According to a Vietnam News Agency correspondent in West Africa, Vozinha said his and his teammates' biggest goal now is to help Cape Verde advance past the group stage. A win over Saudi Arabia in the match at 7:00 AM on June 27 (Vietnam time) in Houston (USA) would secure the African team a place in the knockout round, creating one of the biggest surprises of the 2026 World Cup. Vozinha shared: "My dream, and that of all Cape Verdeans, is to keep going. Just being at the World Cup is already wonderful. And advancing to the next round when no one thought we could even get a point would be extraordinary."

Cape Verde is emerging as one of the most notable sensations of this year's tournament. After a 0-0 draw against European champions Spain, the team continued to surprise by holding Uruguay to a 2-2 tie. In both matches, Vozinha delivered outstanding performances, playing a key role in securing valuable points for his side.

Not only impressive on the pitch, the veteran goalkeeper has also become a social media phenomenon. His spectacular saves have been widely shared by fans, especially in Brazil, causing his online followers to skyrocket into the millions.

However, behind that glory lies an uncertain future. Vozinha's contract with Portuguese second-division club Deportivo Chaves ended before the World Cup began. He has yet to find a new club. The Cape Verde keeper said: "I finished my contract with Chaves and currently have no new team. I am open to any opportunity. Let's see what comes."

Although his future is undecided, the 2026 World Cup is opening new opportunities for this experienced goalkeeper. He said he does not rule out playing in Brazil, where he has received much love from fans. Vozinha stated: "If there is a chance, I would very much like to go to Brazil, at least to thank everyone for all the support they have given me. I think many of my teammates share that wish."

Speaking of his inspirations, Vozinha said he grew up watching legendary goalkeepers like Michel Preud'homme (Belgium), Edwin van der Sar (Netherlands), and Gianluigi Buffon (Italy). Now, Vozinha himself is becoming an inspiration for a generation of Cape Verdean players and fans. From a team underestimated before the tournament, Cape Verde has risen to become the sensation of the 2026 World Cup. And with the 40-year-old hero in goal, that fairy tale still has a chance to continue with a historic ticket to the knockout stage.