The US State Department says it is working to help the mother of Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha travel to the United States to watch her son play at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The issue came to light after Vozinha revealed, following Cape Verde’s stunning 0-0 draw against Spain that his mother had been unable to attend because of visa-related costs and delay, reports CNN.
However, a US State Department official said there is no record of a visa application from the player’s mother and noted that immediate relatives of World Cup players are exempt from the visa bond requirement imposed on citizens of certain countries. The department said it is actively reaching out to the family to assist with the visa process.
A source familiar with the matter informed CNN that Vozinha’s mother is currently in the process of obtaining a passport.
The 40-year-old goalkeeper became one of the tournament’s breakout stars after making seven saves to help Cape Verde earn a historic draw against Spain in the nation’s first-ever World Cup match. His performance has drawn global attention, with his social media following surging in the aftermath.
Cape Verde will face Uruguay in their next Group H match on Sunday in Miami.
