Cape Verde star Vozinha forced to drop famous nickname after Colo-Colo transfer

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has encountered an unexpected setback following his high-profile move to Chilean giants Colo-Colo, with league regulations preventing him from wearing his famous nickname on the back of his jersey.

The veteran shot-stopper, who became one of the standout performers at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, had hoped to continue using the name “Vozinha”—the nickname that has become synonymous with his remarkable career and international success.

However, regulations set by the Chilean Football Association stipulate that players may only display their official surname on their match shirts, ruling out the use of nicknames.

As a result, the Cape Verde international will instead have to wear either “Dias” or “Évora Dias”, derived from his full name, Josimar José Évora Dias.

The decision has come as an unwelcome surprise for both the player and his new club.

Colo-Colo had reportedly hoped to capitalise on Vozinha’s soaring popularity by marketing jerseys bearing his iconic nickname following his impressive performances at the World Cup.

The experienced goalkeeper emerged as one of the tournament’s biggest success stories after producing a series of outstanding displays that helped Cape Verde capture the imagination of football fans around the world.

His heroics between the posts elevated his profile significantly, making him one of the most talked-about African players during the competition and increasing commercial interest in the veteran goalkeeper.

With “Vozinha” now barred from appearing on official match shirts, Colo-Colo’s merchandising plans have suffered a setback.

The Chilean club had anticipated strong demand for jerseys featuring the goalkeeper’s well-known nickname, believing his World Cup fame would translate into impressive shirt sales among supporters.

Instead, the club will now have to explore alternative ways of leveraging the commercial appeal of one of its marquee summer signings while complying with the federation’s regulations.

Despite the naming restriction, expectations remain high for Vozinha as he begins a new chapter in Chilean football.

The experienced goalkeeper arrives at Colo-Colo with an enhanced reputation following his memorable World Cup campaign, where his commanding performances and crucial saves earned widespread praise and helped establish him as one of Africa’s standout goalkeepers on the global stage.

Although supporters may not see “Vozinha” printed on the back of his jersey, the Cape Verdean will be hoping his performances on the pitch ensure his famous nickname continues to resonate with fans throughout his time at Colo-Colo.