Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha is set for an emotional reunion with his mother after she was granted a visa to enter the United States in time to watch her son play in the FIFA 2026 World Cup.
- +Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha to reunite with mother after US grants visa
The 40-year-old shot to global fame following his heroic performance in Cape Verde’s stunning 0-0 draw against Spain, making a series of crucial saves to help the tournament debutants earn a historic point against one of the pre-tournament favourites.
The 40-year-old shot to global fame following his heroic performance in Cape Verde’s stunning 0-0 draw against Spain, making a series of crucial saves to help the tournament debutants earn a historic point against one of the pre-tournament favourites.
Following his player-of-the-match display against Spain, Vozinha revealed that his mother had been unable to travel to the United States to watch him play because of the high cost associated with obtaining a visa.
The goalkeeper’s story quickly gained international attention, prompting intervention from senior US officials.
According to US House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, the visa process has now been expedited, with all applicable fees waived and travel arrangements being made for Vozinha’s mother to attend Cape Verde’s next World Cup match against Uruguay in Miami on Sunday.
Jeffries said he personally contacted US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to help facilitate the process.
“I spoke with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and asked the State Department to do everything in its power to ensure that his mother can attend Cape Verde’s next match,” Jeffries wrote on X.
“It is a privilege to announce that Vozinha’s mom will be able to secure a visa in time to attend the game this Sunday against Uruguay.
“All fees have been waived consistent with official policy. Travel arrangements are now being made for the mother and son to reunite in Miami.
“I thank Secretary Rubio, US State Department officials, the government of Cape Verde and FIFA for working together to make this possible.”
A US State Department official later confirmed that consular staff in Praia were working closely with the family to complete the arrangements.
Vozinha became one of the early stars of the tournament after producing seven saves against Spain to secure Cape Verde’s first-ever World Cup point.
His performance earned global acclaim and transformed the veteran goalkeeper into one of the most talked-about players at the tournament.
The emotional story surrounding his mother’s absence added another layer to Cape Verde’s remarkable World Cup debut.
Now, ahead of Sunday’s clash with Uruguay, the goalkeeper will have the opportunity to perform on football’s biggest stage with his mother watching from the stands.
For Cape Verde, it marks another memorable chapter in what has already been a historic first appearance at the FIFA World Cup.
