The United States Department of State has stepped in to help Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha reunite with his mother after the veteran shot-stopper revealed she was unable to attend his country’s historic FIFA World Cup 2026 debut because of visa-related difficulties.
The intervention comes just days after the 40-year-old goalkeeper delivered one of the tournament’s most memorable performances, producing a string of outstanding saves to help Cape Verde secure a stunning draw against European champions Spain.
Following the match, an emotional Vozinha disclosed that his mother had been unable to travel to the United States to witness the landmark occasion.
“She didn’t manage to be here because of the visa … the money we have to pay for the visa,” the goalkeeper told reporters. “We didn’t manage on time, and I would like her to be here.”
His comments quickly drew widespread attention and prompted a response from US authorities.
A State Department official confirmed on Tuesday that the agency is actively working to assist Vozinha’s family with the visa process and stressed that immediate relatives of players competing at the World Cup are exempt from the controversial visa bond requirement.
“All relatives of players are eligible for visa bond waivers, and the Department is actively reaching out to this player’s family to assist with visa services,” the official said.
The clarification followed concerns over a US policy requiring citizens from 50 countries, including Cape Verde, to pay a visa bond of up to $15,000 in certain circumstances because of concerns about visa overstays.
According to the State Department, athletes, team staff and immediate family members connected to nations participating in the World Cup are eligible for exemptions from the bond requirement, provided they satisfy all visa conditions.
However, reports indicate that the main obstacle may now be obtaining travel documentation, with sources suggesting Vozinha’s mother is currently in the process of securing a valid passport.
The story has added a human dimension to one of the tournament’s biggest early surprises.
Few gave Cape Verde any chance against Spain, one of the favourites for the title. Yet Vozinha produced a remarkable display, making seven saves and frustrating Spain’s star-studded attack throughout the 90 minutes.
The result was celebrated as one of the greatest achievements in Cape Verdean football history and instantly transformed the veteran goalkeeper into a national hero.
Now, as Cape Verde continue their dream World Cup campaign, efforts are underway to ensure that the player’s mother can be in the stands to witness the next chapter of her son’s remarkable journey.
