FLASH
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The 2026 World Cup continues to provide spectacle with the biggest names in world football such as Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Lamin Jamal. However, in addition to the attacking stars who usually get the main attention, this edition is also highlighting some unknown goalkeepers to the general public, who are using the biggest stage of football to tell their own special stories.
The new 48-team format, widely discussed and criticized before the tournament began, has brought into the spotlight previously largely unknown players. Among them are dentists, former softball players, pastors and goalkeepers who have spent most of their careers on the bench. For many of them, the World Cup represents the only chance to change the course of their careers.
Vozinja, the dentist who stopped Spain
One of the most inspiring stories is that of Josimar Dias, known in football as Vozinja. The 40-year-old Cape Verdean goalkeeper has attracted attention not only for his performances, but also for his unusual journey to professional football.
A dentist by training, Vozinja began his professional career at the age of 25 in Angola. In the opening match of the World Cup, he was the protagonist in stopping the favorite Spain, making several crucial saves. Within a few hours, he gained millions of followers on social networks, and is currently without a club after the end of his contract with Chavez in Portugal.
His story became even more touching when his mother was able to follow him closely on tour, after initially facing problems obtaining a visa.
Eloi Rum, Curaçao's record holder
At 37 years old, Eloi Rum is experiencing one of the best moments of his career. After a heavy defeat to Germany, the Curacao goalkeeper became a hero in a goalless draw against Ecuador, where he made a record 15 saves at this World Cup.
Born in the Netherlands and trained at PSV Eindhoven, Rum chose to represent Curaçao due to his family origins. He currently plays for Miami FC and keeps as a special memento the jersey that Lionel Messi gave him after the Argentina-Curaçao match in 2023.
" They should build a statue of me in Curacao ," the goalkeeper humorously declared after his excellent performance against Ecuador.
Beiranvand, from a difficult life to world fame
Alireza Beiranvand remains one of the most distinctive figures in Iranian football. The 34-year-old goalkeeper rose to fame at the 2018 World Cup when he saved Cristiano Ronaldo's penalty, and this year he was decisive against Belgium, neutralizing some of the tournament's most dangerous attackers.
His childhood was far from professional football. His father wanted him to become a pastor and often destroyed his gloves to discourage him from the sport. Beiranvand left home and worked as a baker, a tailor, and even a car washer to survive.
After many attempts, he managed to win a trial with Tehran clubs and then built a successful career with Naft Tehran, Persepolis, Antwerp and Traktor. His story was also made into a film in 2022, while he holds a Guinness World Record for the longest handball in football, 61.26 meters.
Patrick Beach, the Australian surprise
Patrick Beach arrived at the World Cup as Australia's third-choice goalkeeper, but ended up as the starting goalkeeper. The 23-year-old earned the trust of the coaching staff and was one of the protagonists of the 2-0 victory over Turkey.
By the age of 15, Beach was alternating between soccer and softball and was considered a promising talent in both sports. It was only in his final season that he broke out with Melbourne City, helping them win the Australian Championship.
Performances at the World Cup could pave the way for a significant transfer to European football.
The unique case of Scotland
Scotland have brought a completely unusual goalkeeper squad to the World Cup. All three goalkeepers are reserve players at their clubs and have only played seven games between them during the 2025-2026 season.
Angus Gunn played just 45 minutes for Nottingham Forest in the Premier League. Liam Kelly was Rangers' Cup keeper, while Craig Gordon, 43, is the oldest player at this World Cup and has only made three appearances for Hearts.
Despite the lack of minutes, the Scots hope that their experience and character will be enough to achieve a historic goal: passing the group stage for the first time in the history of the national team.
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