The World Cup changed his life! 40-year-old goalkeeper Bojinha, formerly a free agent, is set to transfer to the South American powerhouse Colo-Colo.

*This content was translated by AI.

The World Cup has transformed a player's life. Cabo Verde goalkeeper Bojinha, who emerged as one of the biggest surprise stars of the 2026 FIFA North American World Cup, is preparing to transfer from his free agent status before the tournament to South American powerhouse Colo-Colo.

Reuters reported on the 25th (Korean time) that "Cabo Verde goalkeeper Bojinha, who has risen as one of the top stars of the North American World Cup, has agreed to a transfer to Chilean club Colo-Colo."

It further explained that "Anibal Mosa, president of Colo-Colo, personally confirmed this fact."

Bojinha became a professional player only at age 25. After leaving Portuguese second division club Chaves earlier this summer, he remained a free agent (FA) until recently. Although he needed to find a new team, he was not widely known globally before the World Cup. Considering his age nearing 40, continuing his playing career—even more so making a transfer—seemed unlikely.

However, the North American World Cup brought about a dramatic turnaround in his life.

In the group stage's first match against strong favorite Spain, Bojinha delivered a dazzling display of saves. He kept a clean sheet throughout the match and played a decisive role in helping Cabo Verde secure a 0-0 draw.

Spain ultimately claimed the North American World Cup title. As the winning team was composed of world-class players, Bojinha, who conceded not a single goal against them, received praise from football fans worldwide.

Interest in Bojinha exploded. His social media (SNS) follower count surged dramatically during the tournament. He attracted massive attention, surpassing even NBA superstar Victor Wembanyama, NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes, and MLB's top player Shohei Ohtani (Los Angeles Dodgers).

Bojinha's performance was not limited to the match against Spain. He continued to deliver stable performances afterward, firmly protecting Cabo Verde's goal. Thanks to this, Cabo Verde, making its World Cup debut for the first time, advanced through the group stage and reached the Round of 32.

In the Round of 32 match against Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, Bojinha made several crucial saves multiple times. Although Cabo Verde lost 2-3 after extra time, they pushed the tournament's runner-up Argentina to the brink, leaving a powerful impression.

Bojinha was selected for the North American World Cup Best 11 through fan voting, surpassing Golden Glove winner Unai Simon (Athletic Bilbao, Spain). He ranked first in the goalkeeper category with 39.6% of the votes.

After the World Cup concluded, Bojinha also found a new club. Anibal Mosa, president of Colo-Colo, stated, "Bojinha will become a Colo-Colo player," and added, "He is scheduled to move to Chile within a few days, undergo standard medical examinations, and be officially introduced at Estadio Monumental."

Colo-Colo also hinted at signing Bojinha through its official SNS. The club released an image reminiscent of Bojinha's trademark voluminous curly hair, raising fans' expectations.

Reuters emphasized that "Mo Sa (Chairman) is fully qualified to make this transfer based solely on Bojinha's performance at the North American World Cup," and further noted that "the acquisition could also bring marketing benefits to Colo-Colo."

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*This content was translated by AI.