House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries announced the news on 17/6. He stated that visa fees have been waived, and Ana Candida Evora - Vozinha's mother - will arrive in Miami in time to watch Cape Verde's next match against Uruguay on 21/6.

Vozinha (left) cried after Cape Verde's 0-0 draw with Spain in their opening Group H match of the 2026 World Cup at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, US, on 15/6/2026. Photo: AP

Vozinha, 40, is a veteran goalkeeper who has become a symbol of Cape Verdean football, having started for the national team for 13 years. In their opening Group H match of the 2026 World Cup, he delivered an exceptional performance, making 7 saves and significantly contributing to Cape Verde - a team making its World Cup debut - earning a point against European champions Spain.

After the match, Vozinha broke down in tears, admitting his joy was incomplete because his closest loved ones could not witness his achievement. The 40-year-old goalkeeper stated that his mother, Ana, could not travel to the US due to the exorbitant cost of visa procedures.

Citizens from Cape Verde were among those required to pay a refundable 15,000 USD bond when applying for a US visa, in addition to regular fees. President Donald Trump's administration later waived this requirement for World Cup ticket holders. However, even after the policy adjustment, the initial costs were too high for Ana's family to complete the procedures in time.

Ana Candida Evora (second from right), Vozinha's mother, watched her son's historic performance from her home in Sao Vicente, Cabo Verde. Photo: Reuters

Jeffries directly discussed the matter with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, requesting assistance from the US Department of State. "It is an honor to announce that Vozinha's mother will be able to obtain a visa in time for sunday's match", he said, also thanking all parties involved, including the Cape Verdean government and FIFA, for their cooperation in resolving the issue.

Ana, 59, a house cleaner, watched the match from her hometown of Sao Vicente. She proudly stated, "I said no ball would get past him, and it didn't. I am very proud of my son".

His outstanding performance against Spain not only made Vozinha a hero for Cape Verde but also brought him unimaginable social media fame. The goalkeeper currently has over 12 million followers, an increase of more than 240 times from approximately 50,000 followers before the 2026 World Cup opening match.

Hong Duy (according to The Guardian)