World Cup star Vozinha finally lands in Chile to join Colo Colo after three delays
The 40-year-old Cape Verde goalkeeper, a World Cup breakout star, was greeted by over 300 fans at Santiago airport after visa and personal issues delayed his move three times.
Arrival and fan reception
Vozinha landed at Santiago's Arturo Merino Benítez airport at 8:35 p.m. local time on Sunday, 2 August, after a flight from Madrid. More than 300 Colo Colo supporters packed the terminal with flags, banners, drums and chants to welcome the 40-year-old goalkeeper.
I'm very happy to be here. And I want to thank the fans for the patience they've shown while waiting for me.
He added, "See you at the Monumental Stadium," referencing Colo Colo's home ground.
Delays and uncertainty
Colo Colo had announced the signing on 24 July, but Vozinha's arrival was postponed three times. The club cited delays in obtaining a work visa and unspecified personal matters the player needed to resolve. Speculation grew that Moroccan side Renaissance Sportive Berkane had made a late approach, and reports surfaced that Vozinha would attend a tech event in Rio de Janeiro. His agent, Bernardo Vasconcelos, denied both, stating that the player was still resolving personal issues and that the work permit was in order. The repeated postponements had caused anxiety among fans and inside the club.
Contract and schedule
Vozinha arrives as a free agent after his contract with Portuguese second-division side Chaves ended. He is set to undergo a medical examination on Monday, 3 August, before signing a six-month contract with an option to extend for a further 12 months, potentially keeping him at the club until the end of 2027. His first training session is scheduled for Tuesday morning, followed by an official presentation at the Monumental Stadium at midday.
- Colo Colo announces signing of Vozinha
- Chilean FA amends jersey rule to allow nickname
- Vozinha arrives in Santiago, greeted by over 300 fans
- Medical examination scheduled
- First training session and official presentation at Monumental Stadium
World Cup legacy
At the 2026 World Cup, Vozinha became the oldest player to appear in a national team's debut match at the tournament. He kept eventual champions Spain scoreless in a group-stage draw and delivered a strong performance in a 2-3 extra-time loss to Argentina in the round of 16. FIFA included him in the tournament's ideal eleven, based on a fan vote. His Instagram following swelled to 29 million after the World Cup, and he posted a story from the plane reading, "Loading... the next chapter is on its way."
Jersey nickname approved
On Friday, 31 July, the Chilean Football Federation (ANFP) unanimously amended its competition regulations to allow Vozinha to wear his nickname on the back of his Colo Colo shirt. Previously, league rules required players to use only their surnames. The change was a direct response to the goalkeeper's global recognition under the moniker "Vozinha," which means "grandma" in Portuguese.
What it means for Colo Colo
Colo Colo, Chile's most successful club, currently leads the domestic league and hopes Vozinha will help secure the title and strengthen the squad for next season's Copa Libertadores.
I'm excited. And if Colo Colo wins the title, next year comes the Copa Libertadores, which makes everything even more exciting for all of Chile and South America.
