FIFA welcomed Ana Candida Evora, mother of Cabo Verde goalkeeper Josimar 'Vozinha' Dias, at its Miami headquarters ahead of Cabo Verde's Group H match against Uruguay in the FIFA World Cup 2026. The gesture followed an emotional moment after Cabo Verde's historic 0-0 draw against Spain, where Vozinha spoke about his family's absence due to visa issues.
Diplomatic Efforts Enable Mother's Attendance
Following widespread attention to Vozinha's comments, US authorities, in coordination with the State Department, the Cape Verde government, and FIFA, facilitated travel arrangements for his mother. US House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries confirmed that efforts were underway to ensure her presence, highlighting coordinated diplomatic support that resolved the matter in time for the Uruguay match.
On Sunday, FIFA shared videos on social media platform X showing Vozinha's mother during her visit to the Miami office. "After watching her son star against Spain, we were delighted to welcome the mother of Cabo Verde goalkeeper Vozinha to FIFA's office in Miami," FIFA wrote in a post.
Emotional Message from Vozinha's Mother
In another video, Vozinha's mother expressed gratitude to football fans worldwide and sent an emotional message to the Cabo Verde squad, known as the "Blue Sharks." She said, "I want to thank all the fans, everyone who helped in the process, for the support you gave to the team, especially to Cabo Verde. We're all rooting for Cabo Verde to play well, to shine on the pitch. The players need to have faith, and everything will go well. Keep your heads held high, go onto that pitch, push for a goal, and you'll perform beautifully, my boys. A kiss for you, be strong and brave. Blue Sharks."
Vozinha's Heroics Against Spain
Vozinha emerged as the hero of Cabo Verde's remarkable 0-0 draw against Spain in Atlanta, one of the biggest surprises of the tournament's opening round. The 40-year-old goalkeeper produced a series of crucial saves to help the World Cup debutants hold Spain to a goalless draw. Spain registered 27 shots without scoring, equaling their highest shot tally in a World Cup match without finding the net. Vozinha made seven saves and was named Player of the Match, denying efforts from Mikel Oyarzabal, Ferran Torres, Aymeric Laporte, Mikel Merino, and Marc Cucurella.
Looking Ahead to Uruguay Clash
Cabo Verde, one of the smallest nations ever to compete at a FIFA World Cup, will look to build on their dream start when they face Uruguay in Group H. Vozinha will have his mother in the crowd as Cabo Verde continue their campaign.
