From Cape Verdean hero to global star: Vozinha opens up about the downsides of fame

After causing a sensation at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 40-year-old Cape Verdean goalkeeper explains that he has lost some of his peace of mind in everyday life.

In an interview with The Observer, the Colo-Colo goalkeeper opened up about the consequences of his sudden rise to fame. “I’ve lost my peace and tranquillity. I no longer have any privacy, or at least far less than before. Now, when I go out or to a restaurant, there’s always someone who wants a photo with me or an autograph. Or, worse still, someone’s filming me.”

Sought after from all quarters for commercial opportunities since his feat on football’s biggest stage, Vozinha is keeping his collaborations to a minimum. “During the World Cup, I did just one promotional collaboration, with UFL Mobile. For the time being, I don’t want to work with any tobacco, alcohol or sports betting brands. Lots of people want to be famous, but they only see the positive side of it.”

And when he compares his current life to the one he led before the FIFA World Cup, Vozinha makes no secret of his preference. “To be honest, if I were offered the life I have today or the one I had before, I’d choose the one I had before.”