Key Takeaways
- Cape Verde's Vozinha and Norway's Erling Haaland are included in the fan-voted FIFA World Cup dream team.
- Vozinha secured 39.6% of the goalkeeper votes, despite losing out on the Golden Glove to Spain’s Unai Simon.
- Haaland led Norway to their first World Cup quarter-final with seven goals in five appearances.
Cape Verde's goalkeeper Vozinha and Norway striker Erling Haaland have been named in the fan-voted FIFA World Cup dream team, recognizing their standout performances during unexpected runs by their teams. Vozinha, who topped the goalkeeper vote with 39.6%, has impressed fans despite not being selected for the Golden Glove award, which is chosen by a FIFA technical group.
The 40-year-old Vozinha made seven saves in Cape Verde's goalless draw against eventual champions Spain and helped take Argentina into extra time in the last 32. He was without a club after leaving Portuguese second-tier side Chaves before the tournament, making his World Cup debutants' performance even more remarkable.
Haaland, on the other hand, captured 27.5% of the forward votes for leading Norway to their first World Cup quarter-final. The Manchester City forward scored seven goals in five appearances, including a double as Norway eliminated Brazil 2-1 in the round of 16 before their run ended against England.
The fan-voted dream team features other notable players such as Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi, and Jude Bellingham alongside Vozinha and Haaland. The lineup includes defenders Pedro Porro (Spain), Lisandro Martinez (Argentina), Dayot Upamecano (France), Marc Cucurella (Spain) in the backline; midfielders Rodri (Spain), Michael Olise (France), and Jude Bellingham (England); and forwards Lionel Messi (Argentina) and Kylian Mbappe (France).
Vozinha's inclusion is a testament to his consistent performances, while Haaland's success highlights Norway's unexpected journey in the tournament. Both players have been celebrated for their contributions, with Vozinha making history as one of the oldest goalkeepers to feature in a World Cup dream team.
The fan-voted nature of this lineup underscores the global appeal and excitement surrounding the FIFA World Cup, where every player has the chance to be recognized by fans worldwide. The inclusion of such diverse talents from different nations reflects the spirit of international football competition.
