Cape Verde’s Vozinha Earns Ballon d’Or Goalkeeper Nomination

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has been shortlisted for the 2026 Ballon d’Or Goalkeeper of the Year award after an impressive campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 40-year-old goalkeeper is among 10 nominees for the prestigious Yashin Trophy, despite playing for Portuguese second-tier club Chaves last season.

Vozinha was one of the surprise performers at the World Cup, helping Cape Verde reach the knockout stage for the first time. His outstanding display against eventual champions Spain was one of the highlights of his tournament.

The veteran goalkeeper made seven saves to help Cape Verde hold Spain to a goalless draw, denying one of the competition’s favourites from securing victory.

Cape Verde eventually exited the tournament after suffering an extra-time defeat to Argentina. However, Vozinha’s performances earned him widespread praise and increased attention from football fans around the world.

Following the World Cup, the goalkeeper completed a move to Chilean giants Colo-Colo, continuing his career outside Europe.

Vozinha faces strong competition for the award from some of Europe’s top goalkeepers. Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois, Arsenal’s David Raya, Barcelona’s Joan García and Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel are also on the shortlist.

Yassine Bounou, Emiliano Martínez, Edouard Mendy, Unai Simón and Paris Saint-Germain’s Matvey Safonov complete the 10-man list.

Current Yashin Trophy winner Gianluigi Donnarumma, Liverpool’s Alisson Becker, France’s Mike Maignan and England’s Jordan Pickford were not included among the nominees.

The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony will take place in London on October 26, where the winner of the Goalkeeper of the Year award will be announced.