U.S. Officials Secure Visa for Cape Verde Goalkeeper Vozinha’s Mother Ana Candida Evora in Miami

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, 40, will be reunited with his mother, Ana Candida Evora, for Cape Verde’s next World Cup match against Uruguay in Miami after U.S. officials moved to ensure she could obtain a visa in time.

Vozinha had tearfully told reporters that his mother “didn't manage to be here because ... of the money we have to pay for the visa. We didn't manage on time,” following his standout seven-save performance in Cape Verde’s 0-0 draw with Spain.

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U.S. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said in a statement that it was “a privilege to announce that Vozinha's mom will be able to secure a visa in time to attend their game this Sunday against Uruguay,” with travel arrangements being made for mother and son to reunite in Miami.

The BBC reported that Evora confirmed to the BBC at her home in Sao Vicente that arrangements had been made for her to travel to Miami, and she said, “I'm going to see my son playing in the World Cup, God willing.”

Jeffries said he spoke with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and asked the State Department “to do everything in their power to ensure” Vozinha’s mother could attend Cape Verde’s next match.

A State Department official told the BBC that “We can confirm our visa team in Praia is in close touch with her and providing the needed services,” linking the assistance to the visa process.

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The Hill reported that a State Department official said the department “has no record” of Vozinha’s mother applying for a visa, while also adding that “All relatives of players are eligible for visa bond waivers” and the Department was “actively reaching out” to assist with visa services.

CNA said the visa issue had kept Evora from attending Cape Verde’s Atlanta match, but U.S. officials expedited arrangements so she could attend the Uruguay game in Miami on Sunday.

The BBC said Evora was informed the visa would be issued within 24 hours and sent directly to the football federation headquarters in Praia, and she told the BBC she would go to support her son “to give him strength and courage.”

USA Today reported that Cape Verde’s match against Uruguay is set for 6:00 p.m. ET on FOX in Miami Gardens, Florida, as Vozinha’s story shifts from heartbreak to reunion.

The Hill added that after its match against Uruguay, Cape Verde will face Saudi Arabia for its final Group H match on June 26 in Houston, extending the timeline of the World Cup campaign beyond the reunion.

In Atlanta, Vozinha’s tears followed his explanation that his grandparents could not see him play and that his mother was absent because of the visa money, while the BBC described him as the oldest player to appear in a nation’s debut World Cup match at 40 years and 12 days.