Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha is set for an emotional reunion at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after his mother was granted a visa and will travel to the United States to support him following widespread public backing.
The veteran shot-stopper had previously spoken of his disappointment after revealing that his mother was unable to attend Cape Verde’s opening match because of travel document difficulties, a situation that quickly attracted international attention.
Following diplomatic intervention and assistance from US authorities, the issue has now been resolved, paving the way for Vozinha’s mother to make the trip and watch her son represent Cape Verde on football’s biggest stage.
She is expected to be in the stands when Cape Verde take on Uruguay in a crucial Group H encounter, a match that could have a major bearing on the island nation’s hopes of reaching the knockout stages.
Speaking about the development, an emotional Vozinha admitted it means far more to him than any personal recognition he has received during the tournament.
“I’m very happy. My mother will finally be here with us. Since the first day, that was what I wanted most. Football is important, but family is everything.”
The reunion comes amid a remarkable rise in the goalkeeper’s profile after his outstanding display against Spain in Cape Verde’s World Cup debut.
Vozinha produced a string of crucial saves to help his side secure a memorable draw against the European champions, earning praise from fans and pundits around the world.
His performances have turned him into one of the surprise stars of the tournament, while the story surrounding his mother’s travel difficulties has further captured global attention.
Cape Verde head into the Uruguay match buoyed by their historic result against Spain and with renewed optimism about their chances of progressing from the group stage.
For Vozinha, however, the biggest victory may already have arrived.
“Knowing she will be in the stadium gives me extra motivation. We’ve come a long way to get here, and now she’ll be able to see it with her own eyes.”
Cape Verde face Uruguay on Sunday as they continue their quest to reach the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time in their history.
