Vozinha signs with Chilean giant club, but he might go by a different name

Cape Verdean goalkeeper Josimar José Évora Dias, better known as Vozinha, became a cult icon after his performances in the 2026 World Cup. His epics earned him a move to Chilean giant Colo-Colo, but apparently no love from the Chilean Football Federation, which won’t allow him to use his iconic nickname on his shirt. At 40, Vozinha became a sensation after he denied eventual champions Spain repeatedly in the group stages, before going on to annoy Lionel Messi’s Argentina in the round of 32, where Cape Verde fell in extra time.

One of the biggest names to come out of the tournament, his performances caught the eye of Colo-Colo, one of the biggest clubs in Chilean football. The Cacique, as the team is affectionately known, presented Vozinha as a new signing last Friday. According to AS Chile, the goalkeeper — who was playing for Desportivo de Chaves in the Portuguese second tier — signed an 18-month contract with monthly wages of around 47 million Chilean pesos (US$50,000).

However, fans and the press alike quickly pointed out a potential issue. According to Article 36 of the Chilean First Division rulebook, the use of nicknames on jerseys is prohibited, and the last name or the initial of the first name must appear in accordance with specific guidelines. That means Vozinha would be required to use “Dias” or “J.

Dias.” Origin of his nickname The nickname translates literally to “Granny,” the person his childhood friends accused him of running to when they played football in the streets. Vozinha was raised by his grandparents while his mother worked long hours and his father completed military service. “I used to take quite a few knocks, and whenever I couldn’t get my own back, I’d go home angry and sulking,” said Vozinha in an interview with FIFA in 2024.

“They would tease me, saying I was going to complain to my grandparents.” Colo Colo has already filed a motion with the ANFP, the governing body of the Chilean First Division, to grant the goalkeeper an exemption, who is expected to make his debut on August 16. Cover images: Vozinha Instagram La entrada Vozinha signs with Chilean giant club, but he might go by a different name se publicó primero en Buenos Aires Herald.