Vozinha's mother secures visa to watch Cape Verde hero face Uruguay after Spain heroics

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, the 40-year-old who made seven saves to hold World Cup favourites Spain to a 0-0 draw in Atlanta, will be joined by his mother at Sunday’s group-stage match against Uruguay in Miami after US officials intervened to waive the visa fees that had kept her away.

Vozinha was in tears at full-time in Atlanta despite his man-of-the-match display, explaining that his mother had been unable to travel because she could not afford the $15,000 (£11,200) returnable bond required to secure a US visa. His late grandparents, who raised him, were also not there to witness what became one of the biggest shocks in World Cup history.

“I cried because I grew up with my grandparents and unfortunately they were not here; they died a few years ago,” Vozinha said after the match. “I also cried because my mum didn’t manage to be here because of the visa. Because of the money we had to pay for the visa, we didn’t manage to [get it done] on time. I would like her to be here, but I’m also very happy.”

Hakeem Jeffries, the Democratic leader of the US House of Representatives, announced he had contacted Secretary of State Marco Rubio to resolve the situation. “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 their game this Sunday against Uruguay. All fees have been waived consistent with official policy.”

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

Vozinha’s performance against Spain had already made him a global figure overnight. His Instagram following surged from just over 50,000 to more than 12 million in the hours after the final whistle, as footage of his saves and his emotional post-match interview spread widely across social media.

Cape Verde face Uruguay in Miami on Sunday, with Vozinha now set to have his mother in the stands as the minnows look to build on their stunning opening result.