Chilean giants Colo Colo have secured special permission from the Chilean Football Federation (ANFP) to allow Cape Verdean goalkeeper Vozinha to continue wearing his famous nickname on the back of his jersey.
The 40-year-old shot-stopper completed a six-month move to the Chilean Primera Division side on Monday after gaining global recognition for his standout performances at the FIFA World Cup.
Under ANFP regulations, players are generally required to use their legal names on match shirts, with nicknames prohibited. However, Colo Colo successfully appealed for an exemption, allowing the goalkeeper—whose full name is Josimar Jose Evora Dias—to retain the name “Vozinha.”
Speaking during his unveiling, the veteran goalkeeper described the nickname as an important part of his identity.
“It is the name I have used my entire life. In Cape Verde, it carries great meaning and history, and today it is recognised around the world. If my grandmother were alive, I believe she would be proud. I hope to continue using it for the rest of my career as a tribute,” he said.
Vozinha arrived in Santiago on Sunday to a warm reception from Colo Colo supporters before joining his new teammates for training on Tuesday.
The experienced goalkeeper emerged as one of the surprise stars of the FIFA World Cup after helping Cape Verde earn its first-ever point at the tournament with a draw against Spain during the group stage.
His impressive displays also inspired the African nation to the knockout rounds, where they pushed eventual finalists Argentina into extra time in the Round of 32.
The remarkable campaign earned Vozinha a place in FIFA’s Team of the Tournament and significantly boosted his global profile, with his social media following soaring from about 50,000 to nearly 30 million.
Over a career spanning more than two decades, the goalkeeper has featured for clubs in Slovakia, Angola, Moldova, Cyprus and Portugal, most recently playing for Portuguese second-division side Chaves.
Despite spending much of his career outside Europe’s top leagues, Vozinha described his move to Colo Colo as the fulfilment of a long-held ambition.
He said the Chilean club was always his preferred destination despite receiving several offers, adding that while the World Cup remains the greatest moment of his international career, representing Colo Colo is now the biggest milestone of his club career.