Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha signs with Chile's Colo Colo

Cape Verde’s first appearance on the world stage has been highlighted by the heroics of its 40‑year‑old goalkeeper, Jorge Mendes. In a tournament that saw the island nation advance beyond the group stage for the first time, Mendes’ performances earned him worldwide acclaim and a reputation as the backbone of the team’s historic run.

Mendes was instrumental in Cape Verde’s narrow victories over higher‑ranked opponents, recording a series of critical saves that kept the team in contention. His experience was evident in the penalty shootout against a top‑tier side, where he stopped two shots to secure a 3‑1 win. The goalkeeper’s leadership in the locker room and composure on the pitch were cited by analysts as key factors in the nation’s unexpected progression to the knockout rounds, a milestone that has never been achieved by Cape Verde before.

The 2026 World Cup will now be remembered not only for Cape Verde’s breakthrough but also for Mendes’ standout contribution. His achievements have sparked a renewed interest in the sport across the country and have positioned him as a role model for aspiring footballers in the region.