Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, whose real name is Josimar Diaz, is finally set to see his mother again after the US government approved her visa request. This comes following an emotional appeal during the FIFA World Cup. The goalkeeper broke down after Cape Verde's stunning 0-0 draw against Spain when he revealed that his mother could not afford the bond required to travel. Now, that situation has changed, and Ana Candida Evora is expected to be in Miami to watch her son play against Uruguay.
Josimar Diaz's Emotional World Cup Story Takes a Happy Turn
Vozinha became one of the biggest stories of the tournament after producing a remarkable performance against Spain in Atlanta on Monday. His saves helped Cape Verde secure a surprise draw against one of the World Cup favorites. However, the celebrations quickly turned emotional when the goalkeeper admitted that his mother would not be able to attend the tournament because she could not afford the reported £12,000 bond needed to secure a travel permit. The situation gained widespread attention, and help soon arrived from Washington.
Hakeem Jeffries Confirms Ana Candida Evora Will Attend Uruguay Match
Democratic Representative Hakeem Jeffries revealed that he spoke directly with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to help resolve the issue. Jeffries said: "On the strength of an epic performance on Monday, the Cape Verde team shocked and inspired the World by holding Spain to a draw. Cape Verdeans in America and throughout the diaspora have been celebrating the underdog grit and resilience of the Blue Sharks. That joy was tempered when Vozinha tearfully revealed his own mother was unable to watch her son's iconic performance in person due to visa complications. No mother should miss the chance to see her child make history."
Jeffries later confirmed that the request had been approved and that travel arrangements were already being made. He said: "Upon learning of this development, I spoke with Marco Rubio and asked the state department to do everything in their power to ensure his mother can attend the next match. It is a privilege to announce that Vozinha's mum will be able to secure a visa in time to attend their game this Sunday against Uruguay. All fees have been waived consistent with official policy and travel arrangements are now being made for mother and son to reunite in Miami. Thank you to Secretary Rubio, U.S. State Department officials, the government of Cape Verde and FIFA for working together to make this happen."
The reunion comes during an unforgettable tournament for Vozinha. Along with his heroics on the pitch, he has seen his popularity explode online. The goalkeeper reportedly had around 50,000 Instagram followers before the Spain match. Since then, millions of fans have followed his journey, turning the Cape Verde star into one of the breakout stories of the World Cup.
