World Cup: Cape Verde’s legendary keeper Vozinha set for emotional family reunion after mother receives US visa
By Joel Masibo, June 18, 2026Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha is expected to share an emotional moment with his mother this week after American authorities approved her travel visa, allowing her to attend the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The shot-stopper, whose full name is Josimar Dias, became one of the tournament’s standout performers when he produced a remarkable display in Cape Verde’s surprising goalless draw against Spain on Monday, June 15, 2026.
Despite his heroics between the posts, Vozinha was left emotional after the match when he disclosed that his mother, Ana Candida Evora, would not be able to attend the competition because she could not meet the financial requirements attached to obtaining a travel permit. Reports indicated that the process involved a bond worth approximately £12,000.
Heartwarming moment
However, the situation has now changed following intervention from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The visa application was approved, and the associated costs were reportedly waived.
As a result, Evora is expected to travel to Miami, where she will finally watch her son represent the Blue Sharks when Cape Verde face Uruguay. The match could prove decisive in the island nation’s bid to reach the knockout rounds of the World Cup.
The development was announced by Democratic Representative Hakeem Jeffries, who praised Cape Verde’s inspiring performance against Spain.
He said: “On the strength of an epic performance on Monday, the Cape Verde team shocked and inspired the World by holding Spain to a draw. Cape Verdeans in America and throughout the diaspora have been celebrating the underdog grit and resilience of the Blue Sharks,” he noted.
“That joy was tempered when Vozinha tearfully revealed his own mother was unable to watch her son’s iconic performance in person due to visa complications. No mother should miss the chance to see her child make history.”
“Upon learning of this development, I spoke with Marco Rubio and asked the State Department to do everything in their power to ensure his mother can attend the next match. It is a privilege to announce that Vozinha’s mum will be able to secure a visa in time to attend their game this Sunday against Uruguay.”
“All fees have been waived consistent with official policy, and travel arrangements are now being made for mother and son to reunite in Miami. Thank you to Secretary Rubio, U.S. State Department officials, the government of Cape Verde and FIFA for working together to make this happen.”
Rise to prominence
The goalkeeper’s rise to prominence has been one of the most remarkable stories of the tournament. His outstanding performance against one of the World Cup favourites not only earned worldwide praise but also transformed him into a social media sensation.
Before facing Spain, Vozinha had roughly 50,000 followers on Instagram. Following his match-winning display, his audience surged dramatically, gaining more than a million new followers almost immediately.
His popularity has continued to soar in the days since, with his social media following reportedly approaching 13 million as football fans around the world rally behind Cape Verde’s unlikely World Cup star.
With his mother now set to be in the stands, Friday’s occasion promises to be another memorable chapter in Vozinha’s extraordinary World Cup journey.