Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has earned a place among the 10 nominees for the 2026 Ballon d'Or Goalkeeper of the Year award following a remarkable World Cup campaign. The 40-year-old became one of the tournament’s standout figures as his performances helped Cape Verde make an impressive run on the international stage. His nomination places him alongside several elite goalkeepers, including Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois, Arsenal’s David Raya and Paris Saint-Germain’s Matvey Safonov.

Vozinha played a crucial role in Cape Verde’s memorable group-stage campaign, producing one of his best performances against eventual world champions Spain. He made seven saves to help his side secure a goalless draw against the European giants, underlining his importance between the posts. Cape Verde progressed beyond the group stage before their journey eventually ended against Argentina after extra time, giving the veteran goalkeeper another major moment in an already historic international career.

The World Cup success came after Vozinha completed his second season with Portuguese second-tier club Chaves, where he made 19 appearances. His performances on the global stage subsequently attracted significant attention, leading to a move to Chilean giants Colo-Colo. His popularity also soared on social media, with his Instagram following growing to more than 29 million. The recognition at the Ballon d'Or reflects how his tournament displays turned him into one of the most memorable goalkeepers of the competition.

Vozinha faces strong competition for the award, with the 10-man shortlist also featuring Yassine Bounou, Joan García, Gregor Kobel, Emiliano Martínez, Édouard Mendy and Unai Simón. Notably absent are reigning Yashin Trophy winner Gianluigi Donnarumma, Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker, and World Cup starters Mike Maignan and Jordan Pickford. The winner will be revealed at the Ballon d'Or ceremony in London on October 26, when Vozinha will hope his extraordinary World Cup journey earns him one of the biggest individual honours in football.