From Banker to World Cup Hero: Vozinha’s Amazing Journey

Every FIFA World Cup brings a few unforgettable stories. For Josimar “Vozinha” Dias, it was proof that dreams have no expiration date. A former banker who only turned professional at 25, he led tiny Cape Verde to its first-ever World Cup and produced a standout performance against Spain. Born in Mindelo on the island of São Vicente, Vozinha balanced work in a local bank with playing for Batuque FC and CS Mindelense. His dedication earned him a move to Angola’s Progresso do Sambizanga, followed by spells in Moldova, Portugal, Cyprus, and Slovakia. At 40 years old, his perseverance paid off on football’s biggest stage. His story shows how belief and hard work can rewrite any career timeline and inspire anyone chasing a late-blooming dream.

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