MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Vozinha, Cape Verde's 40-year-old goalkeeper, wanted his mother to see him play in the World Cup. He got that wish and much more.
Cape Verde, an African team, made an unforgettable debut in the tournament. They didn't win a match, but they pushed defending champions Argentina to the brink.
A Historic World Cup Journey
Cape Verde's journey ended in the Round of 32. They lost to Lionel Messi and Argentina with a final score of 3-2 in extra time. This was a much closer game than most expected.
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Start Your News DetoxVozinha said in Portuguese, "We have dignified Cape Verde as a national team in most parts of the world. Today, we fought on an equal footing against Argentina."
The team, nicknamed the Blue Sharks, fought hard. They had a scoreless draw against Spain to start the tournament. Vozinha's performance helped his mother travel to the U.S. to watch him play. Two more dramatic draws were enough for Cape Verde to reach the knockout round.
It took a goal from Messi and a corner kick from him in extra time to secure Argentina's win. The match lasted over two and a half hours. Vozinha stood strong against the world's top-ranked team and one of the best players ever.
Cape Verde defender Pico Lopes called Vozinha a "quality, quality goalkeeper." Lopes added that Vozinha is a legend in Cape Verdean football.
Vozinha's Incredible Saves
Vozinha made at least four elite saves against Messi in the final 60 minutes:
- In the 63rd minute, he stopped a point-blank shot from Messi. Lopes noted that "not many people stop Lionel Messi from three or four yards out."
- He tipped away a free kick from Messi in the 73rd minute, keeping the score at 1-1.
- In stoppage time, Vozinha saw a low free kick from Messi through a wall of players and saved it.
- Late in the first extra time period, he dove to his left to punch away another shot from Messi.
Vozinha and his team gave their all, and it was almost enough.
Cape Verde coach Bubista said Argentina is a world champion with one of the best players. He noted the challenge for his team, especially being their first time in the World Cup. He hopes they can evolve to face more top teams.
Cape Verde is the smallest nation by land area to reach the World Cup. Its population is about one percent of Argentina's. They will receive $11 million from FIFA for their performance.
Beyond the money, the Blue Sharks gained global recognition. Fans worldwide supported them during their run. Lopes said, "Nobody has to ask where Cape Verde is now. They know where we are."
