Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has opened up about the downside of his sudden rise to fame following the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying the constant public attention has affected his private life and taken away the peace he once enjoyed.
The 41-year-old goalkeeper became one of Cape Verde’s standout performers during the tournament after making seven saves against Spain to help his team hold the defending champions to a goalless draw.
His performance attracted widespread attention, with his Instagram following reportedly surging from around 56,000 to more than one million after the match.
Vozinha Says He Misses His Previous Life
Despite the increased recognition, Vozinha said the attention has made everyday activities more difficult.
He explained that visits to restaurants and trips outside often result in people surrounding him for photographs and autographs, while some also record him on their phones.
Vozinha said that if he were given the choice between his current life and the way things were before the World Cup, he would prefer his previous life.
Following the World Cup, Vozinha signed with Chilean club Colo-Colo, although his future with the club remains uncertain.
He has also faced criticism after making an error in a recent international match against Mali, highlighting the increased scrutiny that has followed his World Cup performances.