The 2026 FIFA World Cup has already delivered several emotional moments, and one of the most touching stories surrounds Cape Verde’s goalkeeper, Vozinha. The 40-year-old veteran, who turned in a heroic display against Spain in a goalless draw, was left in tears after the match because his mother could not be there to witness his performance. Now, his long-awaited dream has come true.

A long-awaited reunion ahead

Cape Verde’s historic debut at the World Cup has received a heartwarming boost, as Vozinha’s mother, Ana Candida Evora, has been granted a U.S. visa. Initially, travel restrictions and financial barriers prevented the 59-year-old house cleaner from making the journey, but a high-level diplomatic effort has now cleared the way for her attendance at the Blue Sharks’ next match.

U.S. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries announced on Wednesday that the issues preventing Evora’s travel had been resolved. The much-anticipated reunion is set to happen in Miami, where Cape Verde will meet Uruguay this Sunday in a decisive Group Stage fixture. The breakthrough follows weeks of frustration after a $15,000 (£11,200) bond and other expenses made the trip impossible for the family.

Political and diplomatic collaboration

This resolution came about through extensive diplomatic cooperation. Jeffries acknowledged the efforts of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the State Department, the government of Cape Verde, and FIFA for ensuring the veteran goalkeeper—currently playing for Portuguese second-division side Chaves—would not have to continue the tournament without his mother watching from the stands. The successful outcome followed Vozinha’s emotional interview after the Spain match, which went viral worldwide.

“Cape Verdeans in America and across the diaspora have been celebrating the underdog spirit and determination of the Blue Sharks, joined by football fans from around the world,” Jeffries said in his official statement. “That joy was dampened when Vozinha tearfully revealed that his mother couldn’t witness his historic performance due to visa issues. No mother should miss seeing her child make history. Upon hearing this, I contacted Secretary of State Marco Rubio and asked that all efforts be made to ensure his mother’s attendance at Cape Verde’s next match. It gives me great pleasure to confirm that Vozinha’s mother will now receive a visa in time for Sunday’s game against Uruguay. All fees have been waived per official policy, and travel plans are being finalized for their reunion in Miami. I want to thank Secretary Rubio, the U.S. State Department, the government of Cape Verde, and FIFA for their collaboration in making this possible.”

Vozinha’s emotional World Cup story

Despite being one of the oldest players at the tournament at 40, Vozinha showcased his exceptional reflexes by keeping a clean sheet against Spain, making seven vital saves to secure the draw. After the match, the goalkeeper opened up about his emotional journey, recalling how he turned professional at 25 and how much his family’s sacrifices meant to him.

“I cried because I grew up with my grandparents, and sadly, they passed away a few years ago,” Vozinha explained after the Spain match. “They were everything to me. I also cried because my mother couldn’t be here due to the visa issues and the costs involved. We couldn’t get it done in time. I wish she were here, but I’m still very happy. I’ve worked all my life for this moment. I’m 40 years old and started playing professionally at 25, back in 2012. There were times I thought about quitting, but I kept going because of this dream. This is for everyone. I was named Man of the Match, but this belongs to my teammates too—nothing is possible without them. I will keep working hard for Cape Verde and for our people.”

A mother’s pride from São Vicente

Although Evora could not attend the early matches, she followed every moment from her home in São Vicente. She has always been her son’s biggest supporter and expressed immense pride in his Man of the Match performance against Spain, where he became the oldest player ever to make a World Cup debut for his country—aged 40 years and 12 days.

“I said that no ball would go past him, and that’s exactly what happened,” Evora said proudly. “He’s an excellent goalkeeper. I’m so proud to be Vozinha’s mother and I hope he continues to stop every shot that comes his way.”

As Cape Verde prepare for their next challenge against Uruguay, the nation will be cheering not only for another solid performance but also for a touching family reunion that epitomises the spirit of this World Cup.