According to L'Équipe, Chaves FC has decided not to renew the contract of Cape Verdean goalkeeper Vozinha, who will become a free agent.

Located in Portugal's far north, Chaves typically draws attention more toward Spain than the open ocean. However, recently, fans of this club felt their hearts drift toward the central Atlantic and even beyond. On June 15, Vozinha gained prominence in a match against Spain, helping his team achieve a 0-0 draw, which brought genuine joy to supporters of this Primeira Liga club. Reporter Carlos Velas stated: "He is a dedicated professional, and his cohesive personality makes him beloved by everyone."

Yet Chaves has a bittersweet moment: Vozinha's peak performance with the national team coincided with the end of his two-year tenure at the club. Earlier this month, few questioned the team's decision not to extend the contract of the 40-year-old veteran—his performances last season were mixed. After acquiring Mexican ownership, Chaves initially aimed to challenge for the Primeira Liga title, and even faced relegation concerns. The club's ambitions clearly cannot rest on a 40-year-old goalkeeper, however charismatic he may be.

From Cape Verde to Cyprus, via Moldova

Next, Vozinha may continue his career elsewhere. He has previously played for numerous teams, with stints including Cape Verde, Angola, the Czech Republic, Moldova, and Cyprus. This goalkeeper's hallmark is his exceptional shot-stopping ability, but his distribution outside the penalty area is less reliable. The "Blue Sharks" hero (Cape Verde's national team nickname) made 7 saves in the match against Spain; off the pitch, he has earned respect wherever he has played.

This Saturday, this goalkeeper's Instagram followers will exceed 15 million—his social media account gained 50,000 new followers last week, as people were moved by his story and the tears he shed when the final whistle blew. He admitted: "I have waited for this moment my entire life. I cried because I was raised by my grandparents, who passed away a few years ago. They gave me everything, but they could not witness this day."

U.S. Congressman Announces Visa for Player's Mother

He also explained: "My mother could not come either, due to visa issues. I was unable to gather enough money in time." Through his experience, viewers once again witnessed the absurdity of U.S. entry requirements for African nations: applying for a visa requires a "security deposit" of €5,000 to €15,000.

However, ultimately, Ana Câncida Évora should be able to attend the tribunes for the second group-stage match against Uruguay, from Sunday to Monday midnight. This Wednesday, U.S. Democratic Congressman Hakeem Jeffries announced, "It is a great honor to announce that Vozinha's mother will receive her visa in time."

The 1986 FIFA World Cup Memory Behind the Name

Vozinha's story has always been this way: a happy ending conceals a difficult journey. Cape Verde coach Bubista stated: "He has struggled for years to earn his place, and his tears also show his resilience." Nearly 14 years have passed since he first represented the national team against Cameroon, winning 2-0—that victory also allowed Cape Verde to reach the Africa Cup of Nations final round for the first time.

On Cape Verde's path to their first FIFA World Cup appearance, he experienced countless disappointments and triumphs alongside former teammates Ryan Mendes, Garry Rodrigues, and Yannick Stopira. He and Stopira not only both played in Portugal's second division but also share the nickname "Josimar," a name that evokes memories for fans: at the 1986 FIFA World Cup, both France's striker and Brazil's right-back shared this name. Vozinha's name in Creole is "Mamie," and his jersey surname honors his grandmother. He did not leave his hometown in Cape Verde until age 25; back home, he was already a local favorite, and now he has become a legendary symbol.

Diterjemahkan oleh AI.