World Cup 2026: Vozinha delighted as mother secures visa to watch Cape Verde’s games

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has expressed his joy after learning that his mother will be able to travel to the United States to watch him play at the FIFA World Cup following a remarkable turn of events.

The 40-year-old shot-stopper has emerged as one of the surprise stars of the tournament after producing a Player of the Match performance in Cape Verde’s impressive goalless draw against European champions Spain in Atlanta.

Despite his heroics on the pitch, Vozinha was overcome with emotion after the match as he reflected on the absence of family members who had played significant roles in his life.

His grandparents, who raised him, have passed away, while his mother, Ana Candida Evora, had initially been unable to make the trip due to visa-related challenges and associated costs.

However, after his emotional post-match interview gained widespread attention on social media, the U.S. State Department intervened, and officials confirmed on Thursday that Evora had been granted approval to travel.

The Cape Verde international’s mother is now en route from Praia and is expected to be in the stands at Miami Stadium when the Blue Sharks face Uruguay in their second Group stage match on Sunday.

Speaking to reporters at the team’s training base, Vozinha described the development as a special moment for him and his family.

“For me, this is very important because all my family always supports me ​in everything,” Vozinha told reporters at the team’s training camp.

“And to have her here, for me, it’s something special. My father is also here and my brother, so I am very happy. I wish I could bring more, maybe my brothers and sisters and nephews, but I think sometimes it’s difficult.”

Cape Verde was among several nations affected by strict U.S. immigration measures that required citizens from certain countries to post substantial bonds before entering the country. However, those requirements were later waived for World Cup ticket holders.

Meanwhile, Vozinha’s popularity has soared since his outstanding display against Spain. With assistance from a Brazilian television station that highlighted his story, the goalkeeper’s Instagram following skyrocketed from around 50,000 before Monday’s match to an astonishing 13.7 million by Thursday.

Now, with his family by his side and growing global recognition, Vozinha will be hoping to inspire Cape Verde to another memorable result when they take on Uruguay this weekend.