World Cup 2026: What Messi Told Me After Argentina Win — Cape Verde Goalkeeper Vozinha

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has disclosed the heartfelt words Lionel Messi shared with him following Argentina’s dramatic victory over Cape Verde in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Vozinha delivered an impressive performance at the Miami Stadium, producing several crucial saves to frustrate the Argentine attack throughout the encounter.

Despite his heroics, Cape Verde bowed out of the tournament after Argentina secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory following 120 minutes of football.

Speaking after the match, the 40-year-old goalkeeper said Messi approached him after the final whistle and praised his display while encouraging him to remain proud of his achievements.

“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 was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.

The veteran shot-stopper admitted that receiving such praise from one of football’s greatest players made the moment even more memorable.

“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,’” he added.

Vozinha also revealed that he requested a shirt swap with the Argentina captain after the game.

According to him, Messi agreed to hand over his jersey once post-match media duties had been completed.

“Then I asked if we could swap shirts. Leo said he would give it to me in the tunnel after the interviews,” he said.

Although Cape Verde’s World Cup journey ended with the defeat, Vozinha’s performance drew widespread praise from football fans and pundits, with many highlighting his reflex saves and composure against the reigning world champions.

Argentina, meanwhile, progressed to the Round of 16 after surviving a spirited challenge from the African side.

Messi once again played a key role in guiding his team through to the next stage as they continue their quest to retain the FIFA World Cup title.

For Vozinha, the exchange with Messi became one of the defining moments of his career, capping an outstanding personal display despite his nation’s elimination from the tournament.