Why Vozinha Can't Use His Nickname at Colo-Colo

Why Can't Vozinha Use His Nickname on the Colo-Colo Shirt?

Chilean football is governed by the ANFP (Asociación Nacional de Fútbol Profesional), and Article 36 of its regulations is clear: only a player's paternal and/or maternal surname may appear on the back of the shirt, printed between 5 and 5.5 cm high. Nicknames, aliases and pseudonyms are strictly forbidden.

That means the 40-year-old Cape Verdean goalkeeper — whose full name is Josimar Évora Dias — will have to pick either Évora or Dias for his new jersey. The only escape route would be for Colo-Colo to apply to the ANFP for a special exemption, which would require the federation to create a one-off exception.

When Does Vozinha Officially Join Colo-Colo?

The goalkeeper was expected in Santiago on Tuesday to undergo a medical examination and sign his contract. The deal runs until the end of 2026, with an option to extend for a further year. Colo-Colo's coach has already warned that Vozinha will have to fight for his starting spot.

Where Does the Nickname "Vozinha" Come From?

Vozinha grew up in Mindelo, Cape Verde, raised largely by his grandparents Maria Senhorinha dos Santos and Manuel da Luz Moraes — the latter being the one who took him to football pitches. The young boy played with older kids and often came home angry after rough tackles. His friends joked he would run crying to his grandparents. The word vovô/vovó (grandparent) inspired the diminutive nickname Vozinha, which became globally famous during the 2026 World Cup.

Why Is He Named Josimar?

His father, Zé Pedro, a Cape Verdean military man, was posted away from home when his son was born in 1985. He chose the name remotely while watching the 1986 World Cup in Mexico. He first tried to name his son after Argentine champion Jorge Valdano, but Cape Verdean authorities rejected it. His second choice — the Brazilian right-back Josimar, who dazzled in Mexico — was approved.