Vozinha’s Nickname at Risk Ahead of Colo-Colo Move

ozinha’s Nickname at Risk Ahead of Colo-Colo Move

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha is preparing to join Chilean giants Colo-Colo after a breakout World Cup campaign, but the nickname that made him a global star may not make it onto his new jersey. The 40-year-old shot to fame after his side reached the Round of 32 in their first-ever World Cup appearance, drawing praise for his performances against Spain, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia and Argentina.

From Free Agent to Global Sensation

Vozinha arrived at the tournament as a free agent following his exit from Portuguese club Chaves. His displays quickly turned heads, and his social media following exploded from roughly 50,000 to nearly 30 million, putting him ahead of several major American sports stars in follower count. That surge in popularity has now translated into transfer interest, with Colo-Colo president Aníbal Mosa confirming a deal is close to completion once medical checks and formalities are finished.

Jersey Rules Could Force a Name Change

The complication lies in Chilean Primera División regulations, which bar players from using nicknames on their shirts and require surnames instead. Since Vozinha’s legal name is Josimar Jose Evora Dias, he could be required to wear “Evora,” “Dias,” or “Evora Dias” rather than his familiar nickname, with violations risking a yellow card and a club fine. Colo-Colo have reportedly asked the Chilean Football Association for a special exemption, and federation president Pablo Milad has said the request is being reviewed.

Despite the commercial buzz surrounding his move, Vozinha has stressed that he wants to be judged as a player rather than a marketing figure, and hopes to continue his career for at least another year or two.