Cape Verde star Vozinha set for Colo Colo move after World Cup display
Vozinha’s move to Chile
Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, a standout performer at the 2026 World Cup, is reportedly set to join Chilean club Colo Colo. The veteran goalkeeper’s transfer comes after a series of impressive displays during the tournament. Aníbal Mosa, the president of Colo Colo, has confirmed that an agreement for the 40-year-old player has been reached.
Vozinha is expected to travel to Chile in the coming days to undergo a medical examination. Following the medical, he will be officially presented as a new player at the Monumental stadium. This move marks a significant new chapter for the goalkeeper, who gained considerable attention for his performances on the international stage.
Before this agreement, Vozinha had been linked with a potential move to Inter Miami in the United States. Such a transfer would have offered him the opportunity to play alongside Lionel Messi. However, the deal with Colo Colo indicates a different direction for the player’s career.
World Cup impact and career journey
Vozinha emerged as one of the biggest surprises of the 2026 World Cup, where he played a crucial role in leading Cape Verde to the round of 16. This achievement represents the finest in the national team’s history. His performances included a notable clean sheet against Spain during the group stage.
Cape Verde ultimately exited the tournament after a narrow 3-2 loss to Argentina in extra time. Vozinha’s remarkable efforts throughout the competition earned him a spot in FIFA’s fan-voted Dream Team. He recorded 18 saves across four matches, with 15 of these coming against the two teams that reached the final.
Born Josimar José Évora Dias, Vozinha’s professional journey began later than many, as he did not sign his first professional contract until he was 26. His career prior to the World Cup included stints in Cyprus, Slovakia, Moldova, and Angola, before most recently playing for Portugal’s Chaves in the second division. He entered the World Cup as an unattached free agent after his contract with Chaves expired.
Reasons for the transfer
Colo Colo president Aníbal Mosa emphasized that the decision to sign Vozinha was primarily based on footballing reasons. He stated that the goalkeeper is in excellent condition from a sporting perspective, which was a key factor in the club’s decision. Mosa also acknowledged that the transfer could bring commercial advantages to the Chilean club, in addition to the sporting benefits.
Vozinha’s popularity soared during the World Cup, turning him into a fan phenomenon. His standout performances, coupled with support from Brazilian content creator Casimiro, significantly boosted his public profile. His Instagram following saw a dramatic increase, growing from approximately 50,000 to nearly 30 million within a few weeks.
The club hinted at the signing on social media by posting an image that appeared to show Vozinha’s distinctive curly hair, generating excitement among supporters. At Colo Colo, Vozinha will play under Argentine manager Fernando Ortiz as the Santiago club prepares its roster for the upcoming Copa Libertadores.
His performance in the round of 32 against Argentina included eight saves during the extra-time loss. This remarkable showing garnered praise from figures such as Lionel Messi. Vozinha will join Colo Colo, one of South America’s most successful clubs.
Source: goal.com
Priya Menon 