‘Your people should be proud of you’: Messi’s special message to Vozinha

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha’s incredible journey in the FIFA World Cup 2026 came to an end on Saturday with the 3-2 defeat against Argentina in the Round of 32.

The 40-year-old goalkeeper made eight saves in the match, one more than in Cape Verde’s 0-0 draw against Spain in the group stage, but in the end the defending champions sealed the win in the extra time.

Despite the defeat, Vozinha’s lion-hearted effort has earned the appreciation of millions around the world, which includes Argentine superstar Lionel Messi.

Although Messi beat the goalkeeper in the first-half to open his team’s scoring, Vozinha made a number of great saves against the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, which included an incredible free-kick save in the second-half.

Vozinha had earlier spoken about how it was a dream to play against Messi. After fulfilling his dream, he had a conversation with Messi, details of which he later revealed to the media.

“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,” said the goalkeeper.

“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,’ he added.

Prior to the match, Vozinha had also spoken how he wished to swap jerseys with Messi if they ever met on the football pitch.

His wish came true.

“I asked if we could swap shirts. Leo said he was going to give it to me in the tunnel after the interviews. Moments like these remain engraved in your heart forever.”