Vozinha cannot use his famous nickname at Colo Colo due to league rules

Cape Verdean goalkeeper Josimar José Évora Dias, globally recognized as ‘Vozinha’, is on the verge of joining Chilean club Colo Colo, pending medical examinations. However, a unique challenge has emerged: Vozinha will likely be unable to use the nickname that brought him international fame during the 2026 World Cup.

The regulations of Chile's First Division explicitly forbid players from displaying nicknames or aliases on their jerseys. Article 36 of the league's championship rules mandates that only the paternal and/or maternal surname, with the option of including the first initial, must be printed on the back of the shirt. Nicknames, appellations, or pseudonyms are not permitted.

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For the personal identification of the players, the paternal and/or maternal surname must be printed on the upper part of the back of the shirt (...), the initial of the first name may be added. Nicknames, appellations or pseudonyms will not be admitted.

This rule means that if the transfer is finalized, ‘Vozinha’ cannot appear on his Colo Colo jersey. According to the media outlet Redgol, the only potential avenue for him to retain his famous moniker would be if the Council of Presidents approves a regulatory amendment, a scenario currently not anticipated. If the rules remain unchanged, the goalkeeper will have to opt for one of his surnames, such as Évora, to comply with the league's requirements.

Vozinha was a revelation during the 2026 World Cup, where his exceptional performances were instrumental in Cape Verde's historic run. His stellar play under the posts made him one of the tournament's most popular figures and attracted interest from various clubs, including Colo Colo. The origin of his nickname stems from his upbringing with his grandparents, with "Vozinha" being an affectionate diminutive of "avó" (grandmother) in Portuguese, a tribute to those who raised him.

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It's because of my grandparents. I never lived with my parents. When I was born, my father was doing military service and my mother always had to work. So I grew up with my grandparents