Santiago: Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha to join Colo Colo
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. The Colo Colo president, Aníbal Mosa, confirmed that the deal for the 40-year-old goalkeeper is complete. Vozinha is expected to travel to Chile in the coming days to undergo medical examinations before his official presentation at the Estadio Monumental.
The transfer marks a new chapter for Vozinha, who was without a club after his contract with Portuguese second-division side Chaves expired. His impressive displays at the World Cup garnered significant attention, leading to speculation about his next destination. While there were links to a potential move to Inter Miami, where he might have played alongside Lionel Messi, he ultimately chose Colo Colo.
Aníbal Mosa highlighted the sporting rationale behind the acquisition, stating that Vozinha is in excellent form. Beyond the sporting aspect, Mosa also acknowledged the marketing appeal that Vozinha brings to the club. Colo Colo, based in Santiago, currently leads the Liga de Primera, Chile‘s top football division.
World Cup Impact and Rising Popularity
Vozinha emerged as one of the standout players at the World Cup, becoming a fan favourite and attracting millions of new followers on social media. His Instagram following reportedly grew from approximately 50,000 to nearly 30 million within a few weeks, partly due to backing from Brazilian content creator Casimiro.
His performances were crucial in Cape Verde‘s historic run, which saw them reach the round of 32 for the first time in the national team’s history. A particular highlight was his clean sheet against eventual champions Spain in the group stage, where Cape Verde earned their first-ever World Cup point in a goalless draw. The team then narrowly exited the competition after a 3-2 extra-time defeat to Argentina, who were the tournament holders and went on to reach another final.
During the match against Argentina, Vozinha made several remarkable saves, notably denying Lionel Messi on multiple occasions. This performance was praised by his teammate, defender Pico Lopes, who described Vozinha as a “quality, quality goalkeeper” and a “legend in Cape Verdean football.” Vozinha himself reflected on their performance, stating that they had “dignified Cape Verde as a national team” and fought “on an equal footing against Argentina.”
Career Path and Future at Colo Colo
Born Josimar José Évora Dias, Vozinha did not sign his first professional contract until he was 26. His career has seen him play club football in various countries, including Slovakia, Angola, Moldova, Cyprus, and Portugal. He has previously represented clubs such as AS Trencin, AEL Limassol, Gil Vicente, Zimbru Chisinau, and Progresso, in addition to Chaves.
The experienced goalkeeper has a history of making moves as a free agent, with every professional transfer in his career reportedly occurring without a transfer fee. This trend continues with his move to Colo Colo. Despite his age, Vozinha‘s form at the World Cup demonstrated his continued ability at the highest level.
With 92 international appearances for Cape Verde since his debut in 2012, Vozinha now embarks on this new chapter with Colo Colo. The club teased his signing on social media with an image showcasing his distinctive curly hair, indicating the anticipation surrounding his arrival in Chile.
Source: bbc.com
