After World Cup Heroics, Cape Verde Goalkeeper Vozinha Signs for Colo-Colo

Staff Reporter | PNN

Following an outstanding FIFA World Cup campaign that earned him global recognition, veteran Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has secured a new club by signing with Chilean football powerhouse Colo-Colo.

The 40-year-old goalkeeper, whose performances became one of the tournament's biggest success stories, will now begin a new chapter in South American football.

Colo-Colo President Aníbal Mosa confirmed the signing on Friday (July 24).

He said Vozinha is expected to arrive in Chile within the next few days. After completing his medical examination, he will be officially introduced as the club's newest player at Estadio Monumental in Santiago.

According to local media reports, the free-agent goalkeeper has agreed to an 18-month contract with Colo-Colo.

The club signed the experienced shot-stopper to strengthen its goalkeeping department.

Although his full name is Josimar Dias, he is widely known throughout the football world as Vozinha.

During the recently concluded FIFA World Cup, he played a pivotal role in Cape Verde's historic campaign.

His series of remarkable saves helped the island nation reach the Round of 32 for the first time in its history.

His performances against football giants Spain and Argentina drew widespread praise from fans and analysts alike.

Although Cape Verde's dream run ended with a dramatic 3-2 extra-time defeat to Lionel Messi's Argentina, Vozinha's outstanding displays earned him worldwide admiration.

He was subsequently named in the tournament's Best XI.

In a recent interview, Vozinha said he still hopes to continue playing professional football for another one or two seasons.

He also expressed his desire to join a club that values him for his performances on the pitch rather than merely for his popularity.

Observers believe his move to Colo-Colo reflects exactly that ambition.

Before the World Cup, Vozinha had fewer than 50,000 followers across social media platforms.

Following the tournament, however, his popularity exploded.

His combined social media following has now reached approximately 29 million.

The announcement of his transfer generated widespread excitement online.

Many supporters believe his remarkable journey will inspire future generations to pursue careers as goalkeepers.

England midfielder Jude Bellingham also reacted to the signing announcement, posting a brief message: "The Best."

Vozinha's journey—from one of the World Cup's biggest surprises to joining one of South America's most historic clubs—is being celebrated not only as the beginning of a new chapter in his career, but also as a story of perseverance, experience, and self-belief.