Some World Cups change careers.

For Vozinha, the 2026 tournament may prove to be exactly that. At 40 years old, the legendary Cape Verde goalkeeper went from being a player largely unknown outside Africa to becoming one of the standout stories of his country's greatest-ever appearance on the world stage.

Now, after a tournament that surprised the football world, the veteran goalkeeper has confirmed that he is a free agent and hopes to find a new project to continue his career.

"At the moment I'm a free agent and I'm looking for a good project. I hope to find one soon," he said during a FIFA Legends event at the Fan Festival in New York.

Cape Verde Earned the World's Respect

If there was one team that captured the admiration of football fans during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, it was Cape Verde.

The Blue Sharks arrived with little attention, but quickly became one of the tournament's biggest surprises. The African side competed on equal terms with traditional football powers and proved it could challenge some of the world's best national teams.

During the group stage, Cape Verde earned a historic draw against Spain, a result that confirmed the team had not come to the World Cup simply to make up the numbers. Later, in the knockout stage, they pushed defending world champions Argentina to the limit before falling 3-2 in one of the tournament's most demanding matches.

A major reason for that unforgettable campaign was Vozinha.

The experienced goalkeeper produced several crucial saves that kept his team alive throughout the competition while providing the leadership expected from a player competing in the biggest tournament of his career.

"Now Everyone Knows Where Cape Verde Is"

Beyond the results, Vozinha believes the tournament's greatest achievement was putting his country on the football map.

"This means everything to us. Before the World Cup, many people didn't even know where Cape Verde was. Now everyone knows who we are and where our country is."

His words perfectly summarize the impact the African nation made throughout the competition.

Rather than simply participating, Cape Verde earned respect through its organization, tactical discipline, and fearless approach against opponents with far greater World Cup tradition.

Messi, Spain, and an Unforgettable Experience

One of the most memorable moments of the tournament for Vozinha was facing Lionel Messi.

The goalkeeper did not hide his admiration for the Argentine captain.

"Messi doesn't need an introduction. To me, he's the best player in the world. He's been proving his quality for more than twenty years, and playing against him was an incredible privilege."

He was also asked about the World Cup final between Argentina and Spain, the two finalists he faced during the tournament.

His answer was as simple as it was diplomatic.

"May the best team win."

The World Cup Could Open a New Door

At 40 years old, many believed this World Cup would mark the final major chapter of Vozinha's career.

Instead, it may have opened a brand-new opportunity.

His performances attracted widespread attention and proved he still has the quality to compete at a high level. In a tournament dominated by young stars, the veteran goalkeeper reminded everyone that experience can still make the difference.

Now he hopes Cape Verde's historic World Cup journey will help him secure one final challenge.

Because even though the World Cup has come to an end for him, Vozinha believes the biggest save of his career may still be ahead.

Watch beIN SPORTS Xtra live for free on YouTube