From obscure, veteran goalkeeper to global fame and an extra 6 million social media followers in 90 minutes, Vozinha's story is the sort that has made the World Cup so special across the globe.
The Cape Verde stopper excelled as his side drew 0-0 with European champions Spain on Monday. But the tears he shed after the game were not only joyful.
"I cried because I grew up with my grandparents and unfortunately they were not here; they died a few years ago," he told reporters.
"They were everything for me, for my life. I also cried because my mum didn't manage to be here because of the visa. Because of the money we had to pay for the visa, we didn't manage to [complete it] on time. I would like her to be here, but I'm also very happy."
Visa issues have been a running theme of the World Cup, mostly in the United States. Cape Verde was added earlier this year to the list of countries whose citizens have to post a refundable bond of up to $15,000 (€12,931) before travelling to the country.
