Cape Verde Goalkeeper Gains Over Seven Million New Followers: "It's Madness"

Cape Verde's national team goalkeeper, Vozinha, has gained over 7 million new social media followers after his heroic performance secured a goalless draw against Spain. The two teams finished 0-0 at the World Cup in North America, with the experienced keeper describing the aftermath as "complete madness." The 40-year-old delivered an incredible display, and in the hours that followed, his Instagram follower count soared past the 7 million mark.

For comparison, only five members of England's 2026 World Cup squad have more followers on the platform: Jude Bellingham, Marcus Rashford, Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, and Declan Rice.

"It's madness, I didn't expect it," Vozinha told the Men in Blazers podcast. "Things are moving fast on Instagram, but I couldn't believe it. I still don't, but it is what it is. Thank you to everyone. The World Cup is the biggest stage in football, and it's every child's dream to be here one day. It's always great when we inspire the next generation. To hear kids say they want to be Vozinha one day, I'm very grateful," the veteran added.

Vozinha made seven crucial saves against European champions Spain. The only goalkeeper over 40 to have made more saves in a single World Cup match is Pat Jennings, who made 10 for Northern Ireland against Brazil in 1986. The Cape Verde international also became the oldest goalkeeper in World Cup history to keep a clean sheet on his tournament debut.