Vozinha makes debut for Colo-Colo in Copa Chile

Veteran Cape Verdean goalkeeper Josimar Évora Dias—known as Vozinha—started for Chilean giants Colo-Colo in a Copa Chile fixture against Unión Española on Wednesday. The 40-year-old’s first appearance came after three weeks of training with the squad and follows his inclusion on the bench for the recent Superclásico versus Universidad de Chile. Colo-Colo currently enjoy a 13-point lead over their rivals in the domestic league.

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Vozinha arrived in Santiago in early August after completing a season with Chaves in Portugal’s second division. Colo-Colo announced his signing on July 24, and paperwork and personal matters delayed his entry to the club on three occasions. His reputation was built on a standout performance at the 2022 World Cup, where he made key saves against Uruguay, Spain and Argentina before Cape Verde’s elimination in the round of 32. The tournament propelled his social-media following from just under 50,000 to more than 29 million.

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Coach Fernando Ortiz emphasized that the veteran will need to earn playing time on merit. The goalkeeper roster therefore features a clear internal competition among Vozinha, Maureira and other squad members.

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Fans and club officials expressed optimism that his experience could bolster the team’s defensive depth in upcoming domestic and continental contests. The signing also highlights Colo-Colo’s willingness to integrate internationally recognized talent despite the presence of younger prospects.

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