Can Vozinha stop Messi?

For most goalkeepers, facing Lionel Messi in a World Cup knockout match is a nightmare. For Cape Verde's 40-year-old Vozinha, it is the fulfilment of a lifelong dream.

In a recent interview, he wished for a chance to stand between the posts against the Argentine legend he admired so deeply. Now, as Vozinha and teammates prepare for a historic Round of 32 showdown against holders Argentina, that dream is on the verge of becoming reality.

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The African side have already scripted the fairytale story of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the smallest nation ever to qualify for the knockout stage. Along the way, they defied expectations to emerge as unbeaten runners-up from Group H, holding former champions Spain and Uruguay to a draw before securing progression with another stalemate, against Saudi Arabia.

At the heart of that run stands Vozinha.

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The veteran goalkeeper has been one of the revelations of the North American edition, keeping clean sheets against Spain and Saudi Arabia while conceding only twice against Uruguay. His seven-save masterclass against Spain catapulted him to international recognition, while his 11 saves in the group stage enabled Cape Verde reach the knockout rounds in their debut appearance.

Now comes the ultimate challenge.

Messi arrives in Miami as the tournament's leading scorer with six goals, having found the net in every match for Argentina. Waiting for him is a defence unit that has frustrated some of the most accomplished sides.

Vozinha had openly spoken of his admiration for Messi.

"I hope one day to play against Messi, because for me he is an exceptional player, and I believe many people share this admiration with me."

That wish is now set to be fulfilled.

Standing in front of Vozinha will be Roberto 'Pico' Lopes and a defensive unit that has become known as Cape Verde's wall. Assistant coach Humberto Bettencourt insists there will be no special plan to man-mark Messi and they will trust the collective spirit.

For three-time champions Argentina, it is another step towards defending their crown. For Vozinha and teammates, it is the chance to extend a remarkable run and keep Cape Verde's World Cup story alive.