2026 World Cup hero and Cape Verdean hero Vozinha has snubbed Messi’s Inter Miami for a new club

Veteran Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha will continue his career in South America after agreeing to join Chilean giants Colo Colo, club president Anibal Mosa confirmed on Friday. The 40-year-old, currently without a club after leaving Portuguese second division side Chaves ahead of the World Cup, is expected to arrive in Chile soon to undergo a medical before signing the contract and being unveiled at the Estadio Monumental.

During the World Cup, Vozinha was heavily linked with a move to Inter Miami, which would allow him to link up with Messi, with whom he shares a bond. After Cape Verde’s thriller against Argentina, Vozinha said the Argentine maestro praised his work, which was a big motivation for him.

“I went to Messi after the game. He hugged me and said: ‘You are great. Your people should be proud of you,'” Vozinha said, according to Yahoo Sports.

“That was unbelievable for me. To hear words like that from someone like Leo Messi means a lot to me. I thanked him and said: ‘Thank you, Leo. You are the best.’ I then asked if we could switch shirts. Leo said he’d give it to me in the tunnels after the interview.’

Speaking to the media ahead of Colo Colo’s league match against Deportes Limache, Mosa praised the goalkeeper’s excellent performances at the World Cup, saying his performances earned him the opportunity. He also admitted that the transfer would generate considerable attention for the club beyond its sporting value.

While the paperwork is still being finalized, Colo Colo has already fueled speculation by posting a teaser on social media with what appeared to be the veteran shooter’s unmistakable silhouette and curly hairdo. (Credit: Colo Colo X)

Vozinha was one of the breakout stars of the World Cup and won widespread admiration for his heroics as tournament newcomers Cape Verde surpassed expectations. He played a key role in holding eventual champions Spain to a goalless draw during the group stage and produced another outstanding performance against eventual finalists Argentina, helping to force the match into extra time in the last 32 years.

His performances also resonated with fans around the world and earned him a place in the FIFA Fan World Cup Dream Team.

Football World Cup | FIFA World Cup Schedule | FIFA World Cup Points Table | football news

– The end

Published on:

25 Jul 2026 21:12 IST