New Delhi, August 27: Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha finally made his debut for Chilean giants Colo-Colo after taking part in a Copa Chile match against Unión Española, nearly a month after completing his move to the club.

The 40-year-old, whose full name is Josimar Évora Dias, arrived in Chile on August 2 after Colo-Colo announced his signing on July 24. His arrival was delayed three times because of paperwork complications and personal matters.

Vozinha quickly joined training after reaching South America and was subsequently included in the squad for three matches. He was also on the bench for last Sunday’s “Superclásico” against Universidad de Chile at the National Stadium.

However, the veteran faces strong competition for the starting position. With regular goalkeeper Fernando De Paul sidelined by injury, 19-year-old academy graduate Gabriel Maureira has taken over between the posts and impressed during the derby.

Colo-Colo coach Fernando Ortiz has stressed that Vozinha will have to earn his place rather than receive preferential treatment because of his reputation.

The Cape Verdean goalkeeper became widely known during his country’s World Cup debut, producing impressive saves against top opponents including Uruguay, Spain and Argentina. Cape Verde eventually exited the tournament after losing to Argentina in the round of 32.

Before joining Colo-Colo, Vozinha completed a spell with Portuguese second-division side Chaves. His World Cup performances also triggered a huge surge in his popularity, with his social media following reportedly climbing from fewer than 50,000 followers to more than 29 million.

Colo-Colo currently leads the domestic standings by 13 points over Universidad de Chile, adding further significance to the competition for the goalkeeper’s position as the season progresses.