Vozinha gets nickname exception in Chile as Colo-Colo move stalls

Vozinha, whose real name is Josimar José Evora Dias, can now wear his iconic nickname on his back in Chile. The National Association of Professional Football unanimously approved the exception on Friday, allowing the Cape Verde goalkeeper to bypass the usual rule that limits players to their surnames in the Primera División. Vozinha became a global story with his performances for Cape Verde at this year's World Cup. According to local reports, the right to carry 'Vozinha' on his shirt was one of the conditions he insisted on during talks with Colo-Colo, Chile's most successful club. The 40-year-old's move, though, is stuck in neutral. Colo-Colo announced an agreement last week, and Vozinha was expected in Santiago on Tuesday. A visa problem moved the trip to Thursday, but the goalkeeper never boarded the flight. Club director Jaime Pizarro tried to ease the concern late Thursday. "We contacted his agent just minutes ago. Vozinha asked for more time to sort out personal matters," Pizarro said. Club president Aníbal Mosa admitted the contract has not been signed yet. Head coach Fernando Ortiz told a press conference on Friday that he had spoken directly with Vozinha. "He was happy and satisfied. He is not very expressive, but he is excited about the prospect of coming here. Hopefully he resolves his situation soon so we can count on him," Ortiz said. Vozinha has not commented publicly despite staying active on social media.