Cape Verde keeper Vuzinha becomes World Cup sensation

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vuzinha has emerged as one of the breakout names of the 2026 World Cup after a standout display in a 0-0 draw with Spain.

The 40-year-old produced a string of key saves and was named player of the match as Cape Verde earned a historic point in their first World Cup appearance. His performance quickly spilled beyond the pitch. Vuzinha had about 50,000 Instagram followers before the game, but within days that figure had risen to more than 11.7 million.

The result against Spain marked a landmark moment for Cape Verde, and the night turned Vuzinha from a little-known goalkeeper into one of the most talked-about figures of the tournament.