I always knew I was a big-club player – World Cup hero Vozinha

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has declared he always believed he was destined to play for one of football’s biggest clubs after his impressive FIFA World Cup performances earned him a dream move to Chilean giants Colo-Colo.

The 40-year-old shot-stopper became one of the tournament’s surprise stars as Cape Verde enjoyed a memorable debut campaign, helping the African nation reach the knockout stages before a narrow round-of-32 defeat to Argentina.

His displays attracted interest from several clubs, but Vozinha said joining Chile’s most successful side was the only destination he truly wanted after leaving Portuguese second-tier outfit Chaves.

“Despite playing in smaller leagues for clubs that weren’t exactly giants, deep down I always told myself I was a ‘big club’ player.”

“So when Colo-Colo came calling, there was no doubt. From day one, I knew where I wanted to play. I received many offers, but Colo-Colo was always the priority.”

Colo-Colo, record 34-time Chilean champions, secured the experienced goalkeeper following a career that has taken him through clubs in Portugal, Angola, Cyprus, Moldova and Slovakia.

World Cup breakthrough changes everything

Although Vozinha has enjoyed a long professional career, he admitted nothing compares to the impact the World Cup had on his journey.

Cape Verde exceeded expectations in their first appearance at football’s biggest tournament, holding eventual champions Spain to a goalless draw before also taking points from Uruguay and Saudi Arabia to finish second in Group H.

The Blue Sharks’ remarkable run ended only after a narrow defeat to Argentina in the round of 32, with Vozinha’s commanding performances between the posts earning widespread praise and making him a social media sensation.

The veteran, however, is determined to ensure the tournament becomes a stepping stone rather than the peak of his career.

“The World Cup was the best thing that ever happened to me in football, but that is in the past now.”

Ready for a new challenge

With the World Cup behind him, Vozinha’s attention has shifted entirely to life at Colo-Colo, where he hopes to add a new chapter to an already remarkable career.

The Cape Verde international described the opportunity to wear the famous white shirt as the greatest achievement of his club career, underlining the stature of a team renowned across South America.

“Being here representing Colo-Colo — a massive club with a rich history — is the highlight of my club career.”

After years of proving himself in less celebrated leagues, Vozinha believes his move to one of South America’s traditional powerhouses is confirmation that the confidence he always had in his own ability was justified.

The goalkeeper now has the chance to build on the reputation forged at the World Cup as he begins a new adventure with Chile’s most decorated club.