A title but little playing time and heavy fame: Vozinha's story turns sour in Chile

The Cape Verde goalkeeper who starred at the 2026 World Cup has struggled at Colo Colo, playing just five of 14 matches and struggling with sudden fame after gaining 27.5 million Instagram followers.

Josimar José Evora Dias, known as Vozinha, became a global story at the 2026 World Cup after Cape Verde drew 0-0 with Spain and reached the last 16 against Argentina. The 40-year-old signed with Colo Colo, Chile's most popular and decorated club, and was greeted by thousands of fans and fireworks at his presentation in Santiago.

On the pitch, however, the adaptation has been difficult. Manager Fernando Ortiz has preferred 19-year-old academy product Gabriel Maureira, leaving Vozinha with just five appearances in Colo Colo's first 14 matches. He did play in Sunday's 2-1 victory over Nublense, which secured the Chilean title and Copa Libertadores qualification. Vozinha said he came to play in the Libertadores but is focused on the present.

Off the field, the sudden fame has taken a toll. His Instagram followers jumped from tens of thousands to 27.5 million in days. He has appeared in campaigns for Adidas, Pepsi and Red Bull, and attended the Ballon d'Or ceremony in London, finishing sixth in the Lev Yashin Award for best goalkeeper.

In an interview with The Observer, Vozinha admitted: "I lost my peace and tranquility. Now when I go out, to a restaurant, there's always someone who wants a photo or autograph." He said he would prefer his old life. Former Chile goalkeeper Claudio Bravo has questioned his technical abilities.