Santiago: Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha to join Colo Colo

By Arjun Nair / 26.07.2026

By Arjun Nair — 25 July 2026 — 3 min read

Vozinha’s Move to Colo Colo Confirmed

Vozinha, the goalkeeper for Cape Verde, is set to join Chilean club Colo Colo. This move follows his notable performances during the recent World Cup. Colo Colo president Aníbal Mosa confirmed the deal, stating that Vozinha will travel to Chile in the coming days for medical examinations before his official presentation at the Estadio Monumental.

The 40-year-old goalkeeper had been without a club after his contract with Portuguese second-division side Chaves expired. His impressive displays at the World Cup, particularly a clean sheet against Spain in the group stage, garnered significant attention. Mosa highlighted that Vozinha’s World Cup performances justified the transfer, also acknowledging the marketing benefits for Colo Colo.

Colo Colo, based in Santiago, currently leads the Liga de Primera, Chile’s top football division. The club even hinted at the signing on social media by sharing an image featuring Vozinha’s distinctive curly hair.

World Cup Heroics and Rising Popularity

Vozinha became a prominent figure during the World Cup, attracting millions of new followers on social media. His team, Cape Verde, secured their first-ever World Cup point with a goalless draw against Spain. This achievement was particularly significant as Cape Verde is one of the smallest nations to have reached the World Cup finals.

The team advanced to the round of 32, marking the finest achievement in the national team’s history. They narrowly exited the competition after a 3-2 extra-time defeat to Argentina, who were the defending champions and went on to reach another final. Vozinha’s performance against Argentina was particularly memorable, as he made several saves against Lionel Messi, almost leading his side to a major upset.

Defender Pico Lopes praised Vozinha, describing him as a quality goalkeeper and a legend in Cape Verdean football. Vozinha himself commented after the defeat to Argentina, stating that Cape Verde had dignified itself as a national team globally and fought on equal terms against Argentina.

Career Path and Future Prospects

Born Josimar José Évora Dias, Vozinha’s career trajectory is notable. He did not sign his first professional contract until he was 26. His club career has seen him play in various countries, including Slovakia, Angola, Moldova, Cyprus, and Portugal, with clubs such as AS Trencin, AEL Limassol, Gil Vicente, Zimbru Chisinau, and Progresso, before his recent spell with Chaves.

The transfer to Colo Colo comes after speculation linking him with a move to Inter Miami in the United States, where he would have potentially played alongside Lionel Messi. However, Vozinha ultimately chose Colo Colo. His career has largely involved free transfers, and this move to Colo Colo also occurs as a free agent.

Mosa emphasized that the decision to sign Vozinha was driven by sporting logic, noting the goalkeeper’s excellent form. Vozinha’s popularity also soared due to support from Brazilian content creator Casimiro, which saw his Instagram following increase significantly. With 92 international appearances since his debut in 2012, Vozinha embarks on this new chapter at Colo Colo, aiming to build on the global recognition gained from his inspiring World Cup performances.

His official presentation at the Estadio Monumental is expected to follow his arrival in Chile.

Source: bbc.com