World Cup: US soft pedals, grants waiver to goalkeeper’s mom after son’s viral message

The mother of Cape Verde Vozinha has been granted visa waiver by the US government to watch her 40-year-old son at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup. The World Cup co-hosts had denied the mother, Evora, visa to travel to North America for Cape Verde’s opening World Cup match against Spain. Vozinha made eight crucial […]

The mother of Cape Verde Vozinha has been granted visa waiver by the US government to watch her 40-year-old son at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The World Cup co-hosts had denied the mother, Evora, visa to travel to North America for Cape Verde’s opening World Cup match against Spain.

Vozinha made eight crucial saves to ensure Cape Verde made a dream debut to their first ever World Cup tournament and match, holding former champions and reigning Euro 2024 winners Spain to a goalless draw.

The Portugal-based goalkeeper who was in tears after the man of the match performance revealed that his mother’s absence due to visa regulations brought on his emotions.

His viral emotional message caught the attention of the US State Department, and their visa team in Praia contacted Evora, and approved her travel to the US to watch Vozinha.

“Consistent ⁠with all policies, procedures, and standards, full steam ahead for travel for the game,” a US official revealed according to Reuters.

Evora, already on her way to the US, will watch her son Vozinha play when Cape Verde face Uruguay in ⁠their second group match in Miami on Sunday.