Candida Evora, the mother of Cape Verdean goalkeeping hero Vozinha, has arrived in the United States of America ahead of the West African country’s 2026 FIFA World Cup second Group H match against Uruguay on Sunday.

Vozinha, who became a viral sensation after his notable performance in Cape Verde’s historic 1-1 draw against Spain in their World Cup opener on Monday, tearfully expressed his disappointment that his mother was unable to travel to the United States of America due to visa issues. 

The situation of the 40-year-old caught the attention of the U.S. House of Representatives minority leader, Hakeem Jeffries, who wrote to the Secretary of State Marco Rubio to facilitate the approval of necessary documents for Ms Evora to travel to the U.S. in time for the Uruguay match. 

“The Cabo Verde national football team shocked Spain on the strength of a historic performance by goalkeeper Vozinha. His mom was unable to be there because of visa complications. 

“No mother should miss the chance to see her child make history. I have asked Secretary of State Marco Rubio to do everything in his power to ensure that she can attend Cabo Verde’s next match on Sunday,” Mr Jeffries stated. 

Mr Jeffries later announced that Mr Rubio had agreed to facilitate the reunion of the mother and her son. He also stated that the visa bond of up to $15,000 imposed on citizens of dozens of countries, including Cape Verde, would be waived.

Ms Evora was granted a visa on Thursday. She arrived at the Miami International Airport on Friday evening, and welcomed by members of ‌staff ⁠wearing FIFA accreditation.

“I want to wish him good ​luck and a good ​match,” Ms Evora said as she walked through a huddle of reporters.

Commenting on the news that her mother was on her way to the United States of America, Vozinha said “For me, this is very important because all my family always supports me ​in everything.”

He added, “And to have her here, for me, it’s something special. My father also is here and my brother, so I am very happy. I wish I could bring more, maybe my brothers and sisters and nephews, but I think sometimes it’s difficult.”