23/07/2026
Lionel Messi reportedly made a heartfelt gesture before the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, quietly arranging and paying for tickets so that four members of Cabo Verde goalkeeper Vozinha's family could watch the match from the stands. According to Argentine journalist Yanina Latorre, Messi purchased a large number of tickets throughout the tournament to help people who could not afford to attend, with Vozinha's relatives among those he chose to support.
Messi is said to have developed a strong bond with Vozinha after Argentina's hard-fought 3-2 victory over Cabo Verde in the Round of 32, where the veteran goalkeeper delivered a standout performance. Although Argentina went on to lose 1-0 to Spain in the World Cup final, Messi's off-the-field act of generosity remained private until after the tournament. Latorre said the Argentina captain wanted to ensure that people without the financial means could still experience football's biggest stage, making the gesture one of the tournament's most touching stories.
From: The Business Standard
