Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has etched his name into FIFA World Cup history after becoming only the third goalkeeper aged over 40 to register multiple clean sheets in the tournament. The milestone came as the 40-year-old helped Cape Verde secure a goalless draw against Saudi Arabia, a result that confirmed the nation's historic qualification for the Round of 32 at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The achievement marks another remarkable chapter in the Blue Sharks' fairytale campaign on their tournament debut.

With two clean sheets in the ongoing World Cup, Vozinha has joined an exclusive list featuring England legend Peter Shilton and Italy great Dino Zoff. According to Opta statistics, Shilton remains the only goalkeeper over the age of 40 to record three World Cup clean sheets, while Zoff and Vozinha are now level with two each. The veteran shot-stopper's performances have been central to Cape Verde's defensive resilience throughout the group stage.

Cape Verde also created history by becoming the smallest nation ever to reach the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup. Ranked among the tournament's smallest participating countries by population, the island nation progressed from Group H after drawing all three of its matches. The Blue Sharks became the first team since Chile at the 1998 FIFA World Cup to advance beyond the group stage without winning a match, highlighting the importance of their disciplined defensive displays.

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The decisive draw against Saudi Arabia featured few clear-cut opportunities but showcased Cape Verde's organisation and determination. Jamiro Monteiro came closest to breaking the deadlock in the first half when his low effort forced a save from Saudi goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais. Monteiro threatened again after the restart, while Kevin Pina narrowly missed the target with a curling effort as Cape Verde continued to search for the breakthrough.

Saudi Arabia also defended resolutely, with Al-Owais producing another important save to deny Laros Duarte after a swift Cape Verde counterattack initiated by Nuno da Costa. Da Costa later missed a late opportunity after being set up by Garry Rodrigues, but the Blue Sharks remained composed in the closing stages to secure the point they required. Midfielder Deroy Duarte's influential display earned him the Player of the Match award for his contribution.

Cape Verde had already impressed earlier in the tournament by holding European champions Spain to a draw before sharing the points with Uruguay. Their unbeaten group-stage campaign earned them second place behind Spain, while Saudi Arabia finished bottom of the standings. Coach Bubista's side will now prepare for the biggest match in the country's football history when they face defending champions Argentina in the Round of 32 in Miami on July 3, aiming to extend one of the most inspiring stories of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Also Read: Cape Verde Shocks World Cup 2026: Unbeaten Debutants Secure Knockout Spot