Cape Verde Keeper Vazina Could Cash In After Heroic Draw With Spain

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha became one of the standout stories of the World Cup after being named man of the match in the team’s 0-0 draw with Spain. He made seven big saves against the European champion, helping Cape Verde earn a historic point in one of the biggest surprises in recent years. The performance could also transform his finances.

Vozinha, 40, has spent recent years in smaller European leagues. His Instagram following reportedly exploded from 50,000 to 5.5 million overnight after the match. Before this breakout, he was believed to earn only a modest salary in Portugal’s second division, estimated at several tens of thousands of euros per month.

Industry estimates now suggest that, with 5.5 million followers and global name recognition, he could make more than $10,000 for a single Instagram post. That means one sponsored post could earn him as much as, or possibly more than, what he makes in a month.

Vozinha is also due to become a free agent when the World Cup ends, because his contract with Chaves in Portugal’s second division runs out at the end of the season. He lost his starting place during the season, but later won it back and was also restored as captain. Before Portugal, he played in Slovenia and Cyprus.