In the 2026 FIFA World Cup, 40-year-old Cape Verdean goalkeeper Vozinha rose from an understated legend to a football sensation due to his outstanding performance in the group stage.
In an interview with Argentine media outlet infobae, Vozinha shared an interesting story about his real name, Josimar José Évora Dias.
His father originally wanted to name him "Jorge Valdano" in honor of the Argentine forward who won the 1986 FIFA World Cup in Mexico, but the Cape Verdean authorities did not approve. Ultimately, his family chose "Josimar" to pay tribute to the excellent Brazilian full-back in the same FIFA World Cup. However, the name that has accompanied him throughout his career is "Vozinha."
This nickname originated from his childhood in Mindelo, São Vicente Island. Vozinha was raised by his grandparents, and every time he returned home after playing football in the street, he would be bruised and battered. His friends jokingly said that he always ran to his grandmother for protection, so they called him "Vozinha" (meaning "little grandmother") in Portuguese, a term of endearment. Over time, this nickname completely replaced his given name.
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