Cape Verde’s experienced goalkeeper Vozinha drew global attention with his outstanding performances at the 2026 World Cup. Now he has arrived in Chile to begin a new chapter. As the 40-year-old keeper landed in Santiago to join the storied club Colo-Colo, a festive mood took hold.
Thousands of supporters gathered at Santiago’s international airport to welcome Vozinha. The airport area filled with banners, flags, drums and chanting as fans waited a long time for a glimpse of their favourite star.
Moved by the fans’ affection, Vozinha said: “I’m thrilled to be here. Thank you all sincerely for waiting patiently for me. I’ll see you very soon at the Monumental Stadium.”
Colo-Colo announced the signing of Vozinha on 24 July. His arrival in Chile was delayed several times, however — visa and other administrative complications, as well as personal reasons, forced changes to his travel schedule. During this time there was much speculation about interest from other clubs, including Morocco’s RS Berkane. In the end, putting all the rumours to rest, he arrived in Santiago at 8:35pm local time on Sunday. Colo-Colo’s sporting director and former star Daniel Morán welcomed Vozinha at the airport.
After his contract with Portuguese club Chaves expired, Vozinha had been searching for a new club as a free agent. At the just-concluded World Cup, he played a key role in taking Cape Verde to the knockout stage for the first time in its history. With 18 saves in the tournament and a memorable clean sheet against Spain, he earned a place in the World Cup’s best XI.
Ahead of Vozinha’s arrival, Chilean football also saw a rare event: the country’s football authorities granted special permission for Colo-Colo’s jersey to carry his globally known nickname, Vozinha, instead of his family name.
Under coach Fernando Ortiz, Vozinha will initially play on a six-month contract, with an option to extend for another year.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report