By Adegboyega Adeleye
Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, one of the breakout stars of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, could be forced to abandon the nickname that made him a global fan favourite after completing a move to Chilean giants Colo-Colo.
According to Reuters, Chilean football regulations prohibit players from wearing nicknames on the back of their jerseys, meaning the 40-year-old may have to use his real name, Josimar José Évora Dias, instead of the iconic “Vozinha” when he makes his expected debut later this month.
The veteran shot-stopper earned worldwide recognition during Cape Verde’s remarkable World Cup campaign, with his performances and distinctive jersey name turning him into one of the tournament’s most talked-about players.
However, Colo-Colo are now seeking a special exemption from the Chilean National Association of Professional Football (ANFP), arguing that Vozinha already used the name on football’s biggest stage.
“We have this problem. I spoke with the ANFP and they showed good disposition,” Colo-Colo president Aníbal Mosa told reporters on Wednesday.
“There is a Council of Presidents that was already called for Friday. I have spoken with several presidents and they have shown favourable disposition to have the possibility of him playing with the name Vozinha, considering that he did so in the most important event in the world.”
Chilean league regulations state that only a player’s paternal or maternal surname, with the option of adding the initial of the first name, can appear on the back of the shirt. The rules expressly prohibit nicknames, although Reuters reports that exceptions have been granted in previous cases.
The nickname Vozinha, which translates to “little grandmother” in Portuguese, dates back to his childhood. It was given to him by older boys after he would cry and run home to his grandparents whenever he lost street football matches.
Reuters reports that the former Chaves goalkeeper is expected to arrive in Santiago on Thursday after agreeing an initial six-month contract with Colo-Colo, with an option to extend the deal by a further year.
Having previously played in Portugal, Angola, Cyprus, Moldova and Slovakia, Vozinha now faces an unusual battle off the pitch—keeping the name that turned him into one of the 2026 World Cup’s most memorable figures.
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