Praia begins its next international chapter with a familiar figure between the posts. Josimar Dias, known as Vozinha, has been selected by Cape Verde at the age of 40 for Humberto Bettencourt’s first squad as national-team coach.
The Colo-Colo goalkeeper remains central to the Blue Sharks after a landmark World Cup campaign, where the island nation earned worldwide attention for its defensive resilience. Bettencourt has retained the veteran as Cape Verde turns towards qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Quick facts
- Vozinha, 40, is Cape Verde’s current goalkeeper at Chilean club Colo-Colo.
- Humberto Bettencourt has replaced Pedro “Bubista” Brito as Blue Sharks coach.
- Cape Verde open their AFCON 2027 qualifying programme away to Mali in Bamako on Friday, 25 September.
- Rwanda will then visit Praia on Tuesday, 29 September.
- Vozinha made 18 saves during Cape Verde’s last World Cup run.
Bettencourt takes over following the departure of Bubista, who guided Cape Verde through the country’s historic World Cup adventure. The new coach’s opening selection preserves the established hierarchy in goal, with Vozinha rewarded for his contribution across the summer tournament.
The goalkeeper’s defining night came in Cape Verde’s opening group match, a goalless draw with Spain. Vozinha kept out the eventual world champions and stood as the leading figure in one of the competition’s most striking early results.
He finished the tournament with 18 saves, helping Cape Verde remain competitive until an extra-time 3-2 defeat to Argentina ended their run. Although the exit was narrow, the Blue Sharks’ displays left a strong impression beyond the archipelago.
Bettencourt has said his squad decisions are based on tactical needs and how players complement one another. Those not chosen this month have not been ruled out, with the coach set to monitor their form for their clubs.
The first trip takes Cape Verde to Bamako, where Mali await on 25 September. Four days later, Praia hosts Rwanda as the Blue Sharks begin a new cycle with their most experienced goalkeeper still carrying the gloves.
