The parents of Cape Verde goalkeeper Josimar José Évora Dias, known as Vozinha, have opened up about the sacrifices that paved the way for his historic 2026 FIFA World Cup journey.
Jose Pedro Dias and Ana Cândida Évora raised their football-focused sons in Mindelo amid economic hardships. Jose balanced military duties while Ana worked as a house cleaner.
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The family relied heavily on extended networks.
Due to demanding work schedules, Vozinha and his brother Delmiro spent most of their childhood under the care of their grandparents.
Their grandmother Maria Senhorinha dos Santos even pawned jewelry to support them. Vozinha credited his late grandparents for establishing his personal values and emotional strength.
Emotional Pride and Sacrifice
His father expressed deep emotion over his son's global recognition during the tournament matches in the United States.
"As a father, I feel immense pride... All Cape Verdeans right now feel proud," said Jose Pedro Dias.
The goalkeeper's famous moniker stems from childhood street football matches.
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Peers teased him for running to his grandmother after taking hits, a playful ribbing that became his professional identity.
His father originally wanted to name him after Argentina's Jorge Valdano, but Cape Verdean authorities rejected the foreign name in 1986.
He was named Josimar instead.
His brother Delmiro also played professionally as a defender.
Before committing fully to sports, the 40-year-old athlete learned practical electrical work from his father and coached local volleyball teams in Mindelo.
Crowdfunding and political intervention raised $15,000 to help his mother overcome visa obstacles and witness his performances live.
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This followed a surge in his social media following during the tournament.
