By Amaechi Agbo
Cape Verde’s iconic 40-year-old goalkeeper, Josimar José Évora Dias—universally known as Vozinha—has been called up to the national team squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
The veteran shot-stopper, who currently plays for Chilean powerhouse Colo-Colo, features prominently in the first official squad named by Cape Verde’s newly appointed head coach, Humberto Bettencourt. The selection signals a strong message of continuity as the Blue Sharks prepare to kick off their Group K qualifying campaign against Mali on September 25.
Vozinha’s international recall comes on the heels of a historic, fairytale year. Prior to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Mindelo-born keeper found himself without a club after leaving Portuguese second-division side Chaves. However, his life and career transformed overnight following a breathtaking tournament in which he captained World Cup debutants Cape Verde to an unforgettable Round of 32 finish.
The highlight of his viral campaign was a legendary 7-save performance in a 0–0 group stage draw against eventual world champions Spain, followed by an 8-save masterclass that pushed Argentina to the absolute limit in a dramatic 3–2 knockout defeat. His heroic antics on the pitch saw his social media following skyrocket from 37,000 to over 28 million Instagram followers, turning him into a global sensation.
His World Cup exploit earned him a high-profile move to Chile’s most decorated club, Colo-Colo, where he has quickly integrated into the squad, keeping a clean sheet in his Copa Chile debut. More recently, Vozinha cemented his place among football’s elite after being named one of the ten official nominees for the prestigious 2026 Yashin Trophy, awarded to the world’s best goalkeeper.
At 40 years old, Vozinha holds the second-highest number of appearances in Cape Verde’s footballing history. Having already represented his nation at four separate AFCON tournaments (2013, 2015, 2021, and 2023) and a World Cup, his presence in the dressing room remains vital for the country’s tactical base and emerging talents.
Upon receiving his nomination and subsequent call-up, an emotional Vozinha shared his gratitude with fans: “This isn’t mine alone. I carry with me Cape Verde and an entire people who never stopped believing.”
Bettencourt’s squad also features goalkeepers Carlos dos Santos of San Diego FC and Márcio da Rosa of UTA Arad, but all eyes will undoubtedly be on the veteran No. 1 as the Blue Sharks aim to secure their ticket to the 2027 finals.
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