Cape Verde goalkeeper gains more than 6 million followers after World Cup heroics
Cape Verde goalkeeper Josimar Dias, better known on social media as "Vozinha," has seen his Instagram following surge by more than six million after his performance against Spain at the FIFA World Cup 2026, Qazinform News Agency reports.
Before Cape Verde's Group H match against Spain, the 40-year-old goalkeeper had around 50,000 followers on Instagram. Shortly after the match, the number surpassed one million, and by June 16 his account had reached 6.4 million followers.
Dias currently plays for Portuguese second-tier club Chaves and is one of the most experienced footballers in Cape Verde's history. A full international since 2012, he has represented the national team at four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and the country's first-ever FIFA World Cup.
The veteran goalkeeper became one of the breakout stars of the tournament after helping Cape Verde secure a surprise 0-0 draw against Spain. Vozinha made seven saves during the match and was named Player of the Match for his performance.
Cabo Verde against Spainpic.twitter.com/teVAtEe4tT
— Troll Football (@TrollFootball) June 15, 2026
The result was widely described as one of the biggest upsets of the World Cup group stage. Spain entered the tournament as the world's second-ranked team, while Cape Verde was ranked 67th in the FIFA World Ranking.
Earlier, Qazinform News Agency reported that Cape Verde held Spain to a shock goalless draw in the country's first-ever FIFA World Cup match.
