Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha recently broke down in tears after revealing that his mother could not travel to the United States to watch him play because of visa challenges and the high financial costs involved.
Speaking after one of Cape Verde’s World Cup matches, the veteran goalkeeper expressed his disappointment, saying he wished his mother could be present to witness one of the biggest moments of his football career.
“My mother couldn’t be here because of the visa. The money we have to pay. We didn’t manage on time, and I would like her to be here,” he said emotionally.
Cape Verde is among several countries whose citizens face stricter visa requirements under current U.S. immigration policies.
Reports indicated that applicants from certain nations could be required to pay visa bonds reaching up to $15,000 due to concerns over visa overstays.
Vozinha’s emotional comments quickly gained international attention, generating sympathy from football supporters and public figures across the globe. Following widespread media coverage, U.S. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries reportedly contacted Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss the situation.
The U.S. State Department later clarified that immediate family members of FIFA World Cup players qualify for visa bond waivers, removing a major obstacle that had prevented Vozinha’s mother from making the trip.
As a result, Vozinha’s mother granted US visa became a reality, bringing relief to the Cape Verde international and his family. Ana Candida Evora has now officially received her visa and is expected to attend Cape Verde’s upcoming World Cup clash against Uruguay.
The development means the 40-year-old goalkeeper will finally have the opportunity to see his mother cheering him on from the stands during one of the most important tournaments of his career.
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