In a match that left Spanish fans wondering about the identity of the opposing goalkeeper, Josimar José Évora Dias, known as Vozinha, became the unexpected protagonist. The 40-year-old goalkeeper, who plays for Chaves in the Portuguese second division, made seven decisive saves against the Spanish national team, preventing his side from losing.
Advanced statistics indicate that Spain created enough chances to score 2.28 goals, a figure that did not translate into the scoreline thanks to Vozinha's intervention. The player, whose market value is estimated at around 50,000 euros, has become a national idol for the African nation after his heroic performance.
The nickname 'Vozinha', meaning 'little voice' or 'little grandmother' in Portuguese, has a curious origin. As explained by his father, the nickname arose from his childhood when his friends teased him for running to his grandmother for help after being unable to compete physically with older boys. The given name, Josimar, was a tribute from his father, a football-fanatic soldier, to the Brazilian full-back who shone in the 1986 Mexico World Cup.
Initially, Vozinha's father attempted to register him as Jorge Valdano, but the name was rejected due to local regulations. Despite not being known by his given name, the goalkeeper has gained worldwide recognition for his saves against the European champions, leading Cape Verde to a draw in their World Cup debut. The player's emotional tears on the pitch of the Mercedez-Benz Stadium contrasted with Spain's disappointment.
