After the emotions sparked by his mother’s absence during Cabo Verde’s historic 0-0 draw against Spain, goalkeeper Vozinha may soon receive the support he has been hoping for.
The US State Department said it’s working to help Ana Candida Évora obtain the necessary documents to travel to the US after she could not afford the bond payment for a visa.
“The initiative comes after the story of the goalkeeper and his mother drew widespread attention,” a State Department statement noted. Vozinha was seen wiping away tears after the match in which his team held the former world champions, with fans later learning his mother could not travel to watch him live.
According to a State Department official, “efforts are underway to make sure she can witness her son’s World Cup journey firsthand.” The official added that the department is coordinating with relevant agencies to expedite the process for Ana Candida Évora’s travel documents.
Vozinha, whose full name is Josimar Dias, has been one of Cabo Verde’s standout performers at the tournament. His mother’s absence became one of the most talked-about human stories of the World Cup, with supporters across Africa and beyond rallying behind the family.
If successful, the State Department’s intervention would allow Ana Candida Évora to be in the stands as her son continues Cabo Verde’s World Cup campaign.
Source: US State Department, June 2026