2026 continues to be a super breakthrough year for Cape Verde’s number 1, Vozinha, after being listed among the nominees for the Ballon d’Or Keeper of the Year.

Vozinha, who rose to prominence at 40 years old, following his talismanic World Cup performance to shut out eventual Spain to earn a historic point for the tournament debutants, was officially announced among nine nominees by the awards on Tuesday.

He was listed alongside names Spain & Arsenal keeper David Rayo, Argentina’s Emiliano Martinez Aston Villa/ Chelsea loanee, World Cup keeper of tournament Spain’s Unai Simion and Real Madrid/ Belgium’s Thibout Courtois

Vozinha, who was the backbone of an inspirational World Cup debut run for the small African nation, was among the major discovered viral figures to emerge from the tournament, with his social media account exploding from under 60k to 30 million followers in days following is herorics.

The Ballon d’Or nom, marks the latest in post World Cup accomplishments for the Cabo Verde Skipper who was not named in the Best XI but also earned a contract with Chilean top flight team ColoColo.

Undoubtedly adding to the inspirational story of the player who continues to prove his talents against the world’s best. Further, the ideal that opportunity is not limited by age but is always be present for the prepared.