Vozinha became one of the most inspiring stories of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after Cabo Verde secured a historic 0-0 draw against Spain.
The 40-year-old goalkeeper was the hero of the match, making several crucial saves that earned the African debutants a valuable point against one of the tournament favorites.
However, after the game, Vozinha revealed a personal disappointment: his mother had been unable to travel to the United States to watch him from the stands because of the cost and visa-related issues.
“She couldn’t be here because of the visa and the money that had to be paid for it. We weren’t able to complete everything in time, and I would have loved for her to be here,” the Cabo Verde goalkeeper said.
According to CNN, the U.S. Department of State is working to assist Vozinha’s family so that his mother can travel to the United States and watch her son play in the World Cup.
The State Department stated that it has no record of this individual having applied for a visa but emphasized that family members of World Cup players are eligible for exemptions from certain financial guarantee requirements. Officials are now coordinating with the goalkeeper’s family to help facilitate the process.
It is an emotional story that could become even more special for Vozinha following Cabo Verde’s historic World Cup debut.
