HERE WE GO! Aston Villa Confirm Signing of Cape Verde Hero Vozinha
Aston Villa have officially completed the signing of veteran Cape Verde goalkeeper **Josimar José Évora Dias**, universally known as **Vozinha**, on a free transfer. The 40-year-old shot-stopper arrives at Villa Park following an unforgettable campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where his heroics between the posts captivated international football fans.
From World Cup Glory to Villa Park
Vozinha entered the summer as a free agent after his contract expired, but his stock skyrocketed during Cape Verde’s historical debut run on global football’s biggest stage. Serving as team captain, the experienced goalkeeper led the Blue Sharks into Group H.
His standout moment arrived during Cape Verde’s opening group fixture against heavyweight contenders Spain. Vozinha produced a masterpiece in goal, recording **8 vital saves** to secure a stunning 0-0 draw against the Spaniards. His lightning-fast reflexes, command of the penalty area, and decisive shot-stopping denied Spain’s world-class frontline at every turn, instantly making him one of the breakout stars of the tournament.
Vozinha continued his commanding form throughout the group stage, helping Cape Verde remain unbeaten against Uruguay and Saudi Arabia to advance to the knockout rounds. Even in their hard-fought 3-2 defeat to Argentina in the Round of 32, Vozinha produced another 7 saves in extra time, cementing his reputation as a big-game specialist under severe pressure.
Key Stats: Vozinha’s International Legacy
* **Full Name:** Josimar José Évora Dias
* **International Caps:** 94 appearances for Cape Verde 🇨🇻
* **Key World Cup Performance:** 8 saves & clean sheet vs Spain (0-0)
* **Tournament Milestones:** 5 AFCON appearances (2013, 2015, 2021, 2023, 2026 World Cup)
* **Previous Clubs:** AEL Limassol, AS Trenčín, GD Chaves
What Vozinha Brings to Aston Villa
Aston Villa move swiftly to add veteran depth, leadership, and elite tournament experience to their goalkeeping department ahead of the upcoming Premier League campaign.
With nearly two decades of senior professional football across Portugal, Cyprus, Angola, and Slovakia, alongside nearly a century of caps for his country, Vozinha brings an invaluable calm presence to the squad. His wealth of experience is expected to provide top-tier backing in the Premier League while mentoring younger squad members throughout domestic and European competitions.
Speaking after signing his contract at Villa Park, the Cape Verdean legend expressed his excitement for this new chapter in the Premier League:
> *”To join a club with the rich history and passion of Aston Villa is a dream come true. After an incredible journey with my country at the World Cup, taking on this challenge in England is the perfect next step for me. I am ready to give everything for the fans and the team.”*
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Villa fans won’t have to wait long to see their new signing in training as preparations heat up for the Premier League kickoff.
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