Vozinha's mother flies to Miami after US waives visa fees for Cape Verde keeper's family

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha will be reunited with his mother ahead of the nation’s World Cup group game against Uruguay after US officials waived visa fees and arranged travel for Ana Candida Evora to fly into Miami.

The 40-year-old shot to international prominence after keeping a clean sheet in Cape Verde’s goalless draw with Spain — 2010 World Cup winners — and then moved millions of fans when he revealed in his post-match interview that his mother had been unable to attend because of the cost of obtaining a US visa. Cape Verde is among five nations whose citizens are required to pay a refundable visa deposit of approximately £11,000, though fans holding match tickets were exempted from the rule in May.

Speaking from her home on the island of Sao Vicente, Ana Candida Evora confirmed that arrangements had been finalised before her Saturday flight to Miami. “I’m very happy. This is happening so fast, but I’m quite happy anyway,” she said. “I’m going to see my son playing in the World Cup, God willing. I’m going there to support him, to give him strength and courage. I’m going to give him a hug after the game.”

US House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries announced that he had personally contacted Secretary of State Marco Rubio to press the State Department to act. “No mother should miss the chance to see her child make history,” Jeffries posted 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.”

Jeffries credited Secretary Rubio, US State Department officials, the government of Cape Verde, and FIFA for working together to make the reunion possible.

The story had already drawn an outpouring of support on social media, including from England fans, after Vozinha’s emotional interview following the Spain draw. The veteran keeper, who has earned 91 caps for his country and currently plays club football for Chaves in Portugal after spells in Slovakia, Angola, Moldova and Cyprus, had spoken candidly about the personal weight of the moment.

“I cried because I grew up with my grandparents. Unfortunately, they were not here — they died a few years before. They were everything to me, everything in my life,” he said. “And also because of my mum. She didn’t manage to be here because of the visa, because of the money you have to pay.”

Ana Evora will now be in the stands as Cape Verde face two-time World Cup winners Uruguay in what represents the nation’s next major test at the tournament.