19/06/2026 19:54 - Deportes
Arquero de fútbol en uniforme azul celebrando en un estadio de Copa del Mundo con su madre emocionada en las tribunas
The goalkeeper for the Cape Verde national team, known as Vozinha, experienced a bittersweet moment during his World Cup debut. While celebrating a historic 0-0 draw against Spain, the European champions, his mother was absent from the stands at Atlanta's stadium because she couldn't obtain a US visa in time.
However, this story has a happy ending. US House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries announced that American authorities took exceptional measures to reunite mother and son in Miami.
"It is a privilege to announce that Vozinha's mother will be able to obtain the visa in time to attend this Sunday's match against Uruguay. All fees have been waived in accordance with official regulations, and travel preparations are being organized so mother and son can reunite in Miami."
The Congressman highlighted his personal connection to Cape Verde: his mother is originally from the African archipelago, adding a personal touch to this diplomatic gesture.
Vozinha was one of the standout players in the Spain vs Cape Verde match in Group H. His national team, making its World Cup debut and considered the underdog, achieved a historic draw thanks to the goalkeeper's spectacular saves.
Jeffries praised the courage and resilience of the "Blue Sharks", the nickname of the Cape Verdean national team, which has captured the imagination of fans worldwide.
| Match | Cape Verde vs Uruguay |
| Date | Sunday, June 21, 2026 |
| Time | 6:00 PM Local (10:00 PM GMT) |
| Stadium | Hard Rock Stadium, Miami |
| Group | H - Second Round |
The 2026 World Cup is being hosted across three countries: the United States, Mexico, and Canada. US visa requirements have created obstacles for family members of players from African and Latin American teams. Vozinha's case joins similar situations requiring special diplomatic arrangements.
Cape Verde is a small archipelago off the coast of Senegal with just over 500,000 inhabitants. This tournament marks their first-ever World Cup appearance, making them the smallest nation ever to qualify for football's biggest stage.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
