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Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has said that he is making a conscious effort to stay focused on football and not get distracted by his sudden social media fame.

The 40-year-old was named Player of the Match in Cape Verde’s FIFA World Cup opener against reigning European champions Spain, following a string of outstanding saves that helped his team secure a 0-0 draw.

Since that memorable performance, Vozinha’s popularity online has skyrocketed. His Instagram following surged from fifty thousand before the match to an astonishing 13.7 million by Thursday. Despite this, the veteran shot-stopper insists he is not dwelling on his newfound fame.

“I don’t want to talk about this,” he said. “Sorry, but we are here because of football. We are here for the national team and because of the World Cup. I am very thankful for everything, but please, let’s speak about football.”

He further explained, “Honestly, it’s not easy to handle all of this, but I’m trying my best not to get caught up in it. I’m spending as little time as possible on social media because it’s not good for focus.”

“We’re here for our national team, for football, and for the World Cup. It’s been my dream since I was a child, and living that dream is what truly matters to me.”

In an emotional moment after the match, Vozinha revealed that his mother had initially been unable to obtain a visa to watch him play. However, following his statements that gained widespread attention, the U.S. State Department intervened and confirmed that his mother, Ana Candida Evora, had been granted approval to travel.

Evora will now be present to cheer on the Blue Sharks in their upcoming fixture against Uruguay.

“Yes, I think everything is sorted out,” Vozinha said. “I hope she will be here soon. For me, this means a lot because my family is everything to me. They have supported me throughout my career, and having my mother here will be something truly special.”

“My father and brother are already here, and I’m very happy about that. I wish I could bring even more family members — maybe my siblings and nephews — but it’s not always possible. Still, I’m extremely grateful.”