Arturo Vidal leads Colo-Colo celebrations, but Vozinha gets the ovation

Arturo Vidal led Colo-Colo’s title celebrations, but the loudest ovation went to Vozinha. The goalkeeper lifted the trophy to applause from the large crowd in the stands after playing a decisive part in the title-clinching match: he saved a shot in the final play that could have brought an equaliser for the opposition. Aged 40, he was celebrated by the crowd, even though Vidal took a more prominent role in the speeches.

The champions won the Chilean league on Sunday with a 2-1 victory away to Ñublense. The result strengthened their 10-point lead over Universidad de Chile with three rounds still to play. During the celebrations, Vidal took the microphone and sang messages directed at the club’s historic rival alongside the supporters. The “King” told them: “The Chuncho can’t believe it, Colo-Colo is the greatest.”

Some members of the squad, coaching staff and club leadership wore chilotes, knitted conical hats made for warmth and originating in southern Chile. Club president Aníbal Mosa had worn one as a good-luck charm during the season.

The celebrations did not settle questions over contracts. Before the festivities, Vidal had said: “If Colo-Colo belonged to the people, I’d play for free, but it doesn’t belong to the people.” A separate statement carried on TNT Sports referred to a possible renewal: “It’s close, but what matters is the desire and willingness, that the project is appealing and that a bit of cleverness brings us together to achieve things.” Mosa said the club would turn to the squad after finalising the agreement with Ortiz. Vozinha is among those involved, and his contract expires next month.