After holding heavy favorite Spain to a goalless draw in its 2026 FIFA World Cup opener, Cabo Verde has emerged as one of the competition's most enthralling narratives. The ripple effects of the achievement are being keenly felt among the players, particularly veteran goalkeeper Vozinha, whose profile has skyrocketed in the wake of the Group H stunner.

The 40-year-old shot-stopper, who performed with remarkable poise during Monday's match in Atlanta, has seen his Instagram following surge from around 50,000 to an astonishing 12 million in just a matter of days. This sudden ascent to fame has become a source of both amusement and conversation within the squad, illustrating the burgeoning global interest in Cabo Verde, which is fast becoming one of the tournament's biggest surprises.

Cabo Verde midfielder Laros Duarte has been taking the phenomenon in stride: "Yeah, it's crazy. We have been talking about it actually every day. I don't know if this ever happened before that somebody gained this many followers in less than two days. It's incredible. I'm happy for him. This shows the whole world is watching us."

Duarte also hailed Vozinha's demeanor, noting, "As far as I know, he's a very calm person. He's shy as well. So, I think it's great for him to receive such exposure. He remains down-to-earth through it all and seems almost unaware of the magnitude of what's happening. It's funny, nice and I'm very pleased, of course."

The playmaker concluded the salute to his goalkeeper with more high praise, "He's our legend. For him, it's special to be here after all these years. For the whole country, he's like a legend, and this recognition feels well-deserved. I'm happy that the world can finally see just how good he is."