Argentina’s national team struggled more than expected to beat Cape Verde 3-2 and secure their spot in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. But the one who stole the spotlight, even in defeat, was the opposing goalkeeper: Josimar Vozinha. The experienced goalkeeper, a standout for the African team throughout the tournament, broke his silence after the elimination with a speech that mixed sadness and pride.
In statements to Cazé TV, Vozinha did not hide his bitterness: «We are a bit sad because we did enough to win the game.» However, he quickly put what was achieved into perspective: «We played against the current world champion and managed to play as equals. We had opportunities to win the match, so we have to be satisfied and proud.»
The goalkeeper also referred to the weight of facing Lionel Messi and company. «There is great respect for Messi and for all the Argentine players, but we tried to play our game,» he stated, making it clear that the squad was not intimidated by the rival stars.
Beyond the result, Vozinha highlighted the growth of football in his country. «We are a very small country, a poor country, without many resources, but with a resilient people,» he expressed, and considered that this performance could mark «a before and after» for future generations of Cape Verdean footballers.
Argentine captain Lionel Messi was one of the standout players in the match, but Cape Verde did not give up until the end. Vozinha, with key saves, kept his team in the game until the last minute. «Unfortunately we couldn’t win. Now we have to look to the future,» the goalkeeper concluded, leaving the door open for new challenges.
Cape Verde’s performance did not go unnoticed. In a World Cup where surprises are scarce, the Africans showed that football can be a tool for overcoming adversity. Vozinha, with his humility and dedication, became a symbol of that struggle. While Argentina celebrates advancing, the goalkeeper leaves with his head held high, knowing that his team competed as equals against the best in the world.
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jaja vozinha llorando como nena pero bueh le metieron 3 los nuestros igualito mi tio juegan como negros de mierda argentina campeon del mundo no te hagas el pija andá pa alla segui atajando chirolas en liga de tu pueblo vamos argentina carajo alta figura? mamita si no le metiamos 6 es xq nos dio fiaca dale campeon
vozinha un capo mal lástima q estos yankees chorearon el mundial como siempre fifa favorece a los de arriba para mí es una vergüenza jugaron como leones pero el imperio siempre gana afuera imperialismo ✊🌍