Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has shared the heartfelt words Lionel Messi said to him following Argentina’s dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory over Cape Verde in the Round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup.
The 40-year-old shot-stopper put on an impressive display at Miami Stadium, producing several crucial saves to keep his side competitive against the defending champions. Despite the narrow defeat, Cape Verde bowed out with their heads held high after a historic campaign.
Speaking after the match, Vozinha revealed that Messi approached him for a warm embrace and delivered a touching compliment.“I went up to Messi after the game. He hugged me and said, ‘You are great. Your people should be proud of you.’ That was incredible for me,” Vozinha said.The veteran keeper added that the moment meant the world to him.
“Hearing words like that from someone like Leo Messi means a lot to me. I thanked him and said, ‘Thank you, Leo. You are the best.’ I also asked if we could swap shirts, and he agreed to exchange them in the tunnel after the interviews.”
The encounter highlights Messi’s class and sportsmanship, even in the heat of a knockout match, while further cementing Vozinha’s memorable World Cup performance.
