Historic Moment! Cape Verde’s Vozinha Lands Ballon d’Or Nomination

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has earned a place on the 2026 Ballon d’Or shortlist for the Best Goalkeeper award, marking a major milestone in his career and putting him among some of the most recognised goalkeepers in world football.

The veteran shot-stopper, who plays for Colo-Colo, was named among the 10 contenders for the prestigious award, which recognises outstanding goalkeeping performances during the season.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Vozinha’s nomination sees him compete against a star-studded field that includes Morocco and Al-Hilal goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois, Barcelona’s Joan Garcia and Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel.

Other nominees include Chelsea’s Emiliano Martinez, Senegal and Al-Ahli goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, Arsenal’s David Raya, Paris Saint-Germain’s Matvey Safonov and Athletic Bilbao’s Unai Simon.

The recognition gives the shortlist a strong African presence, with Vozinha joining Bounou and Mendy as representatives from the continent.

Vozinha’s inclusion is particularly significant given Cape Verde’s relatively limited presence on football’s biggest individual award stages. His nomination places the country in the spotlight while highlighting the growing recognition of talent emerging from nations outside the traditional football powerhouses.

The 2026 Ballon d’Or race follows a season shaped by major domestic competitions, the UEFA Champions League and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with several goalkeepers producing notable performances throughout the campaign.

Although Vozinha may not be regarded as the leading favourite for the award, his nomination itself represents a significant achievement and provides another landmark moment for Cape Verdean football.

He will now compete alongside the other shortlisted goalkeepers as the football world awaits the eventual winner of one of the sport’s most prestigious individual honours.