Vozinha thought Yashin Trophy nomination was a ‘joke’ | OneFootball

Vozinha (40), a relative unknown heading into this summer’s FIFA World Cup, made a name for himself in North America thanks to his exploits with Cape Verde.

The 40-year-old, who has never played at an elite club and has never garnered a transfer fee, was an integral part of one of the stories of the tournament. He helped frustrate Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia in the group stages, allowing Cape Verde to progress. They then almost pulled off one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history, taking Lionel Messi’s Argentina to extra time in the Round of 32.

Vozinha’s performances in the World Cup earned him a move to Chilean side Colo-Colo later in the summer, and it was revealed last month that he was a nominee for the Yashin Trophy, awarded to the best goalkeeper of the year. Manchester City’s Gianluigi Donnarumma is the current holder of the prize.

Yashin nomination ‘a gift from the universe’ – Vozinha

Speaking to France Football, Vozinha has now revealed how he reacted to the nomination. “Lots of people will say that it is unfair, and in a certain way, that is how I feel, too. I thought that it was a joke when I heard the news,” he began.

Vozinha added, “I am saying that because I enormously respect these great goalkeepers who play in the best leagues and in the best teams. I take it, above all, as a new reward for the whole of Cape Verde. At this stage of my career and of my life, it is a gift from the universe, so thank you to all of those that put me there.”

GFFN | Luke Entwistle