The United States State Department is working to help the mother of Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha travel to the United States and watch her son play at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The move comes after the veteran goalkeeper became one of the tournament’s biggest stories by helping Cape Verde secure a remarkable 0-0 draw against Spain in their World Cup debut.
Vozinha has revealed that his mother could not attend the match because of visa-related issues and financial challenges. The situation gained international attention after Vozinha became emotional following the historic result. Vozinha’s mother, Ana Candida Evora, watched the match from her home in Cape Verde instead of from the stands in Atlanta. US officials have now confirmed that they are actively trying to assist the family.
US State Department Working with Vozinha Family Ahead of Uruguay Clash
Following widespread public interest in the story, the US State Department said it has no record of Ana Candida Evora applying for a visa. However, officials stressed that relatives of World Cup players can receive exemptions from visa bond requirements. According to sources familiar with the matter, Evora currently does not hold a valid passport and is in the process of obtaining one. This has become one of the main obstacles preventing her from travelling to the United States.
Earlier this year, Cape Verde was included among countries whose citizens were required to pay a visa bond of up to $15,000 under immigration rules introduced by the Donald Trump administration. Although the bond requirement was later removed for World Cup ticket holders, the earlier costs discouraged many supporters from making travel plans.
Vozinha, whose real name is Josimar Dias, admitted after the Spain match that he wished his mother had been present to witness one of the proudest moments of his career. He said that visa-related expenses and timing issues prevented her from making the trip, adding that having her in the stadium would have meant a lot to him.
Fans React Positively to the Story
Fans flooded social media with positive reactions. One user wrote, "Wow this is massive", one wrote, "This Is Such A Beautiful Story". A third fan commented, "Man is really winning Thanks to football", while another wrote, "His mom deserves that experience man, it's so exceptional". One fan commented, "His mom will finally be witnessing greatness".
Political Attention and Next Match
The story has also drawn political attention in the United States. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries urged Secretary of State Marco Rubio to do everything possible to help Evora attend Cape Verde’s next World Cup match. Jeffries said that no parent should miss the opportunity to watch their child achieve something historic on the world stage. Cape Verde will face Uruguay in Miami on Sunday.
