WC sensation finds a new home – Vozinha joins South American giants

Veteran Cabo Verde goalkeeper Vozinha is set for a new chapter after his remarkable World Cup exploits, with reports indicating he has agreed personal terms with Chilean giants Colo Colo.

The 40-year-old became one of the surprise stars of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, inspiring Cape Verde to the Round of 32 in the nation's first-ever appearance at the tournament. Colo Colo hinted at the imminent signing on social media following his standout performances.

Vozinha earned a place in FIFA's Team of the Tournament after making 18 saves in four matches. An incredible 15 of those stops came against the two eventual finalists, while Cabo Verde remained unbeaten in regulation time throughout their historic campaign.

One of the defining moments of his tournament came in a goalless draw against eventual champions Spain, where he produced seven saves to become the oldest goalkeeper to keep a clean sheet in his first World Cup appearance.

He followed that with another heroic display in the Round of 32, making eight saves in a dramatic 3-2 extra-time defeat to Argentina, a performance that drew admiration from Lionel Messi and several football icons.

Born Josimar José Evora Dias, Vozinha arrived at the World Cup as a free agent after leaving Portuguese second-tier club Chaves when his contract expired.

The nickname "Vozinha" has been with him since the beginning of his career. He adopted it to avoid confusion with a teammate who shared his name, choosing a childhood nickname inspired by the grandparents who raised him.

His inspirational displays in the United States transformed him into a global sensation. Vozinha's social media following reportedly exploded from around 50,000 to more than 29 million after the tournament, while several clubs expressed interest in signing him, including MLS side Inter Miami, before Colo Colo ultimately won the race.

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The experienced goalkeeper is now expected to work under Argentine coach Fernando Ortiz as Colo Colo strengthen their squad for a Copa Libertadores campaign, hoping Vozinha's experience can help them compete for South America's biggest club prize.