Vozinha's World Cup wish comes true

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha’s remarkable World Cup story took another emotional turn on Friday when his mother arrived in Miami after receiving a U.S. visa, allowing her to watch her son’s team face Uruguay on Sunday.

Ana Candida Evora travelled from Cape Verde’s capital Praia after the U.S. State Department provided her with a visa following Vozinha’s ⁠tearful comments after the tournament debutants’ shock 0-0 draw with Spain, in which the 40-year-old was named Player of the Match.

Vozinha said he was delighted his mother would finally be able to see him play at the World Cup in person, but made it clear he wanted the focus to return to football as Cape Verde prepare for a match that could move them closer to the knockout rounds.

Evora emerged from the arrivals area at Miami International Airport at 3:53 p.m. local time wearing a pink shirt, smiling as she shook hands with members of staff ⁠wearing FIFA accreditation.

Surrounded by FIFA and airport staff, she walked through a small huddle of waiting reporters before stepping into an elevator and continuing her journey to reunite with her son ahead of Sunday’s Group H clash with Uruguay.

Ana Candida Evora, the mother of Cape Verde’s goalkeeper Vozinha, looks on at Cesaria Evora International Airport near Mindelo, Sao Vicente, Cape Verde, before she begins her journey to the United States, June 17, 2026. REUTERS/Davidson Alves Purchase Licensing Rights, opens new tab

“I want to wish him good luck and a good match,” she said.

It ⁠was not immediately clear whether she would start a five-hour drive to Tampa, where her son has been staying ahead of the game, or wait until Sunday for the reunion.

Vozinha’s heroics against Spain turned the veteran goalkeeper ⁠into one of the breakout stars of the tournament.

The attention only intensified after the final whistle when Vozinha broke down in tears, explaining that his grandparents, who had raised him, had ⁠passed away and that his mother had been unable to travel to the United States to witness the biggest moment of his career.

His comments went viral, prompting an outpouring of support.