Why 37-year-old Cape Verde goalie keeps going…

But the veteran shot stopper, who has featured in all three group stage matches for The Blue Sharks, is one of five experienced stars considered the old guard at the continental competition.

Speaking to SABC Sport after yet another grueling encounter in Abidjan, in which Vozinha tried to keep Egypt out of the competition but ended up conceding twice in a pulsating 2-2 draw, the 37-year-old explained why he keeps going. 

READ: Alex Iwobi and Chidozie Awaziem relieved to get over the AFCON group stage hurdle

''I think I tried to just give my best everyday in the training, try to recover well because in my age I have to prepare very good and also give the experience and what I can give with my experience to the young players but it's war for the coach and this is the most important'', said Vozinha.

With Cape Verde having already qualified for the round of 16 as group winners ahead of The Pharaohs, Mozambique and Ghana, it was expected Vozinha would be rested especially considering his age. He sounded a little surprised to be picked. 

''I don't know but maybe the coach could change me but I was ready to play but if coach put out a goalkeeper I was happy also - because they also deserve it because they work a lot. But like i said we are a team, if coach decide to put anyone - we are here to support'', he added. 

Now that they are unbeaten going into the knockout stage, Cape Verde have won over the locals in Abidjan. Vozinha feels they are capable of creating lasting memories at AFCON. 

''The best of our team is the team spirit, like I said in the previous time  we are really like brothers, like a family. We know that like this we can beat the bigger teams here and just united we can achieve something  maybe bigger'' concluded Vozinha.