Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has been nominated for the 2026 Ballon d’Or Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year award, following his impressive performances during the country’s historic FIFA World Cup campaign.
The 40-year-old goalkeeper is among 10 nominees for the Yashin Trophy, which recognises the outstanding goalkeeper of the season. His inclusion places him alongside some of the biggest names in world football, including Thibaut Courtois, Emiliano Martínez, Yassine Bounou, Édouard Mendy, David Raya and Unai Simón.
Vozinha became one of the breakout stars of the 2026 World Cup as Cape Verde made its debut at the tournament. He played a key role in the island nation’s run to the knockout stage, helping his team hold eventual champions Spain to a goalless draw before producing another strong display against Argentina in the Round of 32. Cape Verde eventually lost 3-2 after extra time.
His World Cup performances earned him wider international recognition and contributed to a move from Portuguese side GD Chaves to Chilean club Colo-Colo in July 2026. The Ballon d’Or organisers list him with 30 appearances, 35 goals conceded and 13 clean sheets during the assessment period.
The nomination is particularly significant for African football, with Vozinha joined by Morocco’s Bounou and Senegal’s Mendy as the continent’s three representatives in the goalkeeper category.
The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony will take place in London on October 26, marking the 70th anniversary of the prestigious award. The Yashin Trophy winner will be determined by an international jury of football journalists.
