What’s at stake for Vozinha and Cape Verde
Goalkeeper Vozinha, 40 years old, is on the verge of a new challenge in South American football. According to Argentine journalist Germán García Grova, the Cape Verdean shot-stopper has accepted an offer from Chile’s Colo-Colo and is finalizing details to sign with the club. The contract would run for 18 months, a period in which the league leaders aim to bolster their squad and lean on Vozinha’s international experience.
Negotiations have advanced significantly in recent weeks. Colo-Colo, top of the Chilean Primera División, tabled an offer that Vozinha countered through his representatives. Now, both sides are close to a definitive deal, local reports say. If completed, Vozinha will join the most successful club in Chilean football, with 34 national titles and a 1991 Copa Libertadores crown.
Vozinha: the hero of the 2026 World Cup
Vozinha was one of the standout performers in Cape Verde’s historic 2026 World Cup campaign. The African side stunned observers by holding Spain and Argentina - the tournament’s finalists - to draws in regulation, plus a tight result against Uruguay. His decisive saves and assured displays earned him global attention and cemented his status as a Cape Verdean icon.
The stopper has racked up roughly 90 caps for Cape Verde. Josimar José Évora Dias, his full name, turned 40 during the World Cup. His first name honors Brazil’s 1986 World Cup right-back Josimar Pereira, while the nickname “Vozinha” dates back to childhood. The youngster would storm off to complain to his grandparents whenever he lost street matches - and the nickname stuck.
Why Colo-Colo wants Vozinha
Colo-Colo lead the Chilean top flight and are hunting for reinforcements to maintain their momentum. Vozinha brings international pedigree and goalkeeping leadership, traits the club prizes as it eyes more silverware. The Santiago-based side, Chile’s most decorated club with 34 league titles and a Libertadores trophy, is pushing for more success.
During the World Cup, Vozinha was also linked with moves to Inter Miami and Brazilian outfits. The Colo-Colo transfer, however, appears closest. A deal is expected in the coming days unless fresh hurdles emerge.
What’s next for Cape Verde and Vozinha
If the move goes through, Vozinha will line up for Colo-Colo in the closing stages of the Chilean league season. For Cape Verde, the 2026 World Cup run already earned the side global respect, and the departure of a veteran like Vozinha could open doors for younger goalkeepers in the national set-up.
Vozinha leaves a lasting mark on Cape Verdean football. With 90 caps and clutch performances, he’ll be remembered as one of the architects of Cape Verde’s rise to the top of African football. Now, his focus shifts to sealing the Colo-Colo deal and continuing his story abroad.
