By Fridah Mbuvi, June 19, 2026
Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha is set for an emotional reunion with his mother after she successfully obtained a United States visa to attend the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 and watch her son play live for the first time on the global stage.
The development follows an emotional scene that captured worldwide attention after the veteran goalkeeper broke down in tears following his player-of-the-match performance during Cape Verde’s historic goalless draw against Spain.
The 40-year-old shot-stopper made eight crucial saves to deny the European giants and secure a memorable point for his country. However, despite the achievement, Vozinha became emotional after revealing that his mother, Ana Candida Evora, was unable to witness the moment due to financial constraints associated with travel and visa requirements.
His emotional reaction quickly went viral, drawing international sympathy and prompting intervention from senior U.S. officials.
According to reports, U.S. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appealed to Secretary of State Marco Rubio to facilitate the process. The U.S. State Department subsequently waived the visa fees and expedited the processing of travel documents through its office in Praia.
Ana Candida Evora, a 59-year-old house cleaner from São Vicente Island, has since departed for the United States and is expected to arrive in Florida ahead of Cape Verde’s second Group H match against Uruguay.
Speaking after receiving clearance to travel, she expressed excitement about finally seeing her son play in person.
“I’m going there to support him, to give him strength and courage. I’m going to give him a hug after the game,” she told the BBC.
The heartwarming story has also transformed Vozinha into an overnight social media sensation. Following widespread coverage of his emotional interview, his Instagram following reportedly surged from about 50,000 to more than 13 million followers within two days.
Cape Verde will face Uruguay in their next Group H fixture on Sunday, June 21, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, with the match scheduled to kick off at 1:00 a.m. East African Time.
The reunion is expected to be one of the most touching moments of the tournament, with football fans around the world rallying behind the veteran goalkeeper and celebrating the bond between mother and son.
