Cape Verde Goalkeeper Vozinha's Mother Secures US Visa to Attend World Cup Match

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha will be reunited with his mother ahead of his team's match against Uruguay, after US visa fees were waived and travel arrangements were finalized. Ana Candida Evora, Vozinha's mother, confirmed she will travel to Miami to support her son, who earned widespread recognition for his performance against Spain.

The 40-year-old goalkeeper's mother had been unable to attend the World Cup due to the substantial cost of obtaining a US visa. Cape Verde is among five nations whose citizens face a refundable visa deposit requirement of approximately £11,000, though this rule was waived for fans holding match tickets. Ana Candida Evora told the BBC from her home in Sao Vicente that she is eager to witness her son's performance firsthand.

The breakthrough came through coordinated efforts between US officials and lawmakers. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries announced that he had contacted Secretary of State Marco Rubio to expedite the visa process. Jeffries stated that all fees were waived in accordance with official policy and that travel arrangements were being made. A US State Department official confirmed that the visa team in Praia was in close contact with Evora and providing necessary services to ensure timely processing.

Vozinha has become a prominent figure in the tournament following his standout goalkeeping display against Spain. The goalkeeper, who has earned 91 international caps for Cape Verde and currently plays for Chases in Portugal's second tier, attracted millions of new social media followers after his player-of-the-match performance. His mother expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating she will be present to give her son strength and courage ahead of Sunday's fixture.