Vozinha’s Arrival in Chile to Boost Colo Colo’s Ambitions

SANTIAGO, Chile (AP) — Vozinha, the distinguished 40-year-old goalkeeper from Cape Verde, reached Chile on Sunday, joining the ranks of Colo Colo. His signing followed several hurdles that threatened to derail the move. Expressing his gratitude, Vozinha thanked the supporters for their patience. “See you at the Monumental Stadium,” he stated, referring to Colo Colo’s home ground in Santiago.

Colo Colo, renowned as Chile’s most accomplished soccer club, confirmed the acquisition of Josimar Évora Dias, known as Vozinha, on July 24. His arrival faced setbacks due to ongoing documentation challenges and personal affairs, causing repeated delays.

Finally, at 8:35 p.m. local time, he landed at Santiago’s airport, where a throng of enthusiastic fans awaited him, brandishing flags, banners, drums, and singing chants. Vozinha, who became the oldest player to debut in a World Cup match for a national team, received acclaim after holding champions Spain scoreless.

Colo Colo’s supporters now share a common vision: for Vozinha to lead the league’s leading team to victory and bolster its continental aspirations for the next season. Marcos Antonio Barrera, a 32-year-old fan, remarked, “I’m excited. If Colo Colo secures the title, the Copa Libertadores awaits next year, heightening the excitement across Chile and South America.”

Scheduled for medical exams on Monday, the standout World Cup goalkeeper will sign his official contract with Colo Colo. The initial agreement lasts six months with an option to extend by another year. Training commences Tuesday, alongside the goalkeeper’s formal presentation for the remaining season.

The Chilean Football Federation recently agreed to let Vozinha wear his famous nickname on his jersey. Previously, league rules stipulated that only surnames could appear. His performances throughout the World Cup, especially against formidable teams like Spain, Uruguay, and Argentina, led to his global popularity, soaring his Instagram followers from fewer than 50,000 to over 29.5 million.

Supporter Sebastián Paredes shared his anticipation: “The Colo Colo family and all of Chile are eagerly waiting. Now, he must secure his place at Colo Colo through talent, determination, and dedication. Hopefully, his presence will elevate Chile’s standing in soccer.”