Cabo Verde's Vozinha Makes FIFA World Cup History with Clean Sheets

Historic Achievement for Cabo Verde's Goalkeeper

Houston [US], June 27: Vozinha, the goalkeeper for Cabo Verde, has made his mark in FIFA World Cup history by becoming only the third goalkeeper to achieve multiple clean sheets after reaching the age of 40.

At 40 years old, Vozinha accomplished this remarkable milestone as Cabo Verde secured their spot in the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 by holding Saudi Arabia to a goalless draw, finishing second in Group H behind Spain.

With two clean sheets in the current tournament, Vozinha joins the ranks of England's Peter Shilton and Italian legend Dino Zoff, both of whom have also achieved this rare feat.

According to statistics from OptaJose, Peter Shilton holds the record with three clean sheets, while both Zoff and Vozinha are tied with two.

Cabo Verde is notable for being the smallest nation to advance to the knockout rounds of this global tournament.

As the third smallest nation to compete in the World Cup finals, Cabo Verde managed to progress by drawing all three of their group matches, as reported on the FIFA website.

They became the first team since Chile in 1998 to move past the group stage without winning a match. Deroy Duarte from the Blue Sharks was named Player of the Match for his exceptional performance.

Earlier in the tournament, Cabo Verde impressed by holding European champions Spain to a draw and securing a 2-2 tie against Uruguay, with their latest result confirming their qualification alongside Spain. Saudi Arabia finished last in the group with just two points.

The first half of the match was tense, with both teams struggling to create clear chances.

Jamiro Monteiro came closest for Cabo Verde, breaking through the Saudi defense and forcing a save from goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais with a low shot.

Monteiro threatened again early in the second half, but his shot lacked power and was easily saved by Al-Owais.

Kevin Pina also tested the Saudi goalkeeper with a curling shot that just missed the target.

Al-Owais was called into action again when Cabo Verde countered through Nuno da Costa, who set up Laros Duarte, but the keeper made a strong save to deny him.

Da Costa missed a late opportunity when Garry Rodrigues provided a low cut-back, but his side-footed shot went just wide of the post.

Despite these missed chances, Cabo Verde successfully secured their place in the Round of 32. Coach Bubista will now prepare his team for a knockout match against defending champions Argentina in Miami on July 3.