Lionel Messi shared a touching moment with Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha after Argentina’s dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32.
The veteran goalkeeper produced an outstanding performance, making a series of impressive saves to keep Cape Verde in the contest, but was ultimately unable to prevent Argentina from advancing to the Round of 16, Softfootball gathered.
Speaking after the match, Vozinha revealed the heartfelt words Messi said to him at full-time.
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.
Vozinha said.
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.’ Then I asked if we could swap shirts. Leo said he would give it to me in the tunnel after the interviews.
the 40-year-old added.
Despite Cape Verde’s elimination, Vozinha’s display earned admiration, with Messi’s gesture providing a memorable moment after an unforgettable World Cup encounter.
