From electrician to World Cup hero: Vozinha’s rise captivates Cape Verde

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha worked on construction sites and as an electrician before becoming a professional footballer, according to his national-team teammate Kevin Lenini.

Lenini, a midfielder for Russian club Krasnodar, shared the story of Vozinha's rise after the goalkeeper's standout performance at the World Cup. 

Vozinha made seven saves as Cape Verde held Spain to a 0-0 draw at the World Cup. Within slightly more than 24 hours after the match, more than 10 million people had followed him on Instagram.

After the World Cup, Vozinha joined Chilean club Colo-Colo as a free agent.

“As he himself has said, before becoming a professional player, he worked on construction sites, was an electrician and did everything he could for his family. In Cape Verde, everyone has to struggle every day to earn money for their family. It is a small country where there are not many opportunities or resources. People are required to struggle constantly, to sweat and shed blood. That is why the fame he has received is more than deserved. He is a legend!” Lenini told Sport-Express.

“After everything Vozinha has been through in his life and everything he has done for our national team, football has rewarded him. Perhaps after this World Cup he is finally enjoying life,” Lenini added.

Vozinha previously played for Chaves in Portugal's second division. Transfermarkt values the goalkeeper at €500,000.

His previous clubs also include Portuguese side Gil Vicente, Moldovan club Zimbru, Cypriot club AEL and Slovakia's Trencin.

By Tamilla Hasanova