The Cape Verde goalkeeper revealed after the team’s historic draw with Spain that his mother had been unable to travel to the United States due to visa-related costs.

Cape Verde Goalkeeper Vozinha’s Mother Cleared to Attend World Cup Match After US Visa Intervention

Miami, United States (Running Africa) — Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha will have a special supporter in the stands when the Blue Sharks face Uruguay in their crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 Group H clash on Sunday after US authorities approved a visa for his mother following a high-profile intervention by American lawmakers.

The decision comes just days after Vozinha emerged as one of the standout performers of the tournament, producing a player-of-the-match display in Cape Verde’s historic 0-0 draw against Spain. The veteran goalkeeper made seven crucial saves to help secure one of the most significant results in the nation’s football history.

Following the match, an emotional Vozinha revealed that his mother had been unable to travel to the United States to watch him compete on football’s biggest stage because she could not afford the costs associated with the visa application process.

The story quickly gained international attention and prompted intervention from Hakeem Jeffries, who contacted Marco Rubio and requested assistance in resolving the situation.

US officials subsequently approved the visa, waived the associated fees, and worked with relevant agencies to coordinate travel arrangements, allowing Vozinha’s mother to attend Cape Verde’s next World Cup match in Miami.

Jeffries thanked Rubio, State Department officials, FIFA, and the Cape Verdean government for their cooperation in helping reunite the family during a landmark moment for Cape Verdean football.

“No mother should miss the chance to see her child make history,” Jeffries said.

For Cape Verde, the gesture adds another emotional chapter to a remarkable World Cup campaign that has captured the attention of football fans around the world, with the Blue Sharks continuing to make history on the sport’s biggest stage.