Mother of Cape Verde star Vozinha will secure visa to attend World Cup in US [View all]
The mother of Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha will be able to receive a visa to enter the United States and watch her son play at the World Cup after cost issues prevented her from attending their historic draw against Spain earlier this week, US House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries announced Wednesday.
Cape Verde was named by the US government on a list of countries whose citizens must post a returnable bond of $15,000 (£11,200) to travel to the United States, in addition to a visa fee. The Trump administration last month dropped the requirement for World Cup ticket holders, but by that point the high costs had ruled out the trip for Ana Candida Evora, the mother of Cape Verdes 40-year-old goalkeeper.
Jeffries said Wednesday that the visa fees have been waived and Evora will be able to attend Cape Verdes next match against Uruguay on Sunday in Miami. He thanked Marco Rubio, the US secretary of state, and the state department for their efforts.
...
Upon learning of this development, I spoke with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and asked the State Department to do everything in their power to ensure that his mother can attend Cabo Verdes next match. It is a privilege to announce that Vozinhas mom 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. Travel arrangements are now being made for mother and son to reunite in Miami. I thank Secretary Rubio, US State Department officials, the government of Cabo Verde and Fifa for working together to make this possible.
https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/jun/17/world-cup-cape-verde-goalkeeper-mother-visa-vozinha
His performance in the first game was world-class. Here's hoping he can match it with mum watching.