The mother of Cape Verde's star goalkeeper Vozinha has been granted a visa to enter the United States in time for her son's next World Cup match. Ana Candida Evora, the 40-year-old goalkeeper's mother, had previously been unable to travel due to high visa costs.
Visa Hurdles Overcome
Cape Verde was on a US government list requiring citizens to post a returnable bond of $15,000 (£11,200) to travel to the United States, in addition to a visa fee. The Trump administration recently dropped the requirement for World Cup ticket holders, but by then the high costs had already prevented Evora from making the trip.
Vozinha became the breakout star of the World Cup after his multiple saves in the 0-0 draw with Spain in their first game. After the match, Vozinha broke down in tears on the pitch.
Emotional Reaction
Speaking after the game, he said: “I cried because I grew up with my grandparents and unfortunately they were not here; they died a few years ago. They were everything for me, for my life. I also cried because my mum didn’t manage to be here because of the visa. Because of the money we had to pay for the visa, we didn’t manage to [get it done] on time. I would like her to be here, but I’m also very happy.”
He added: “I have worked my whole life for this moment. I’m 40 years old. I started playing football professionally when I was 25, in 2012. I thought about leaving, but I continued because of this dream. This is for everyone. I was named man of the match, but this is for all of my teammates because without them nothing would be possible. I will continue to work for Cape Verde and for the people.”
Government Intervention
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries announced on Wednesday, June 17, that Vozinha’s mother has been granted a visa. Jeffries said he spoke to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and asked the State Department to do everything in their power to ensure that his mother can attend Cabo Verde's next match.
Jeffries confirmed that all fees have been waived and travel arrangements are being made to get her to Cape Verde's next game Sunday against Uruguay in Miami. “I thank Secretary Rubio, U.S. State Department officials, the government of Cabo Verde and FIFA for working together to make this possible,” Jeffries said.
