US Congressman Seeks Visa for Cape Verde Keeper’s Mother Ahead of Historic Moment
United States House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has appealed to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to help the mother of Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha secure a visa so she can attend the team’s upcoming World Cup match against Uruguay in Miami Gardens, Florida.
Jeffries made the appeal after the goalkeeper’s emotional post-match remarks following Cape Verde’s historic 0-0 draw against Spain. In a post on X on Tuesday, Jeffries praised the team’s remarkable achievement and highlighted the circumstances surrounding the absence of the player’s mother.
“The Cabo Verde national football team stunned Spain with a historic performance led by goalkeeper Vozinha,” Jeffries wrote. “His mother was unable to attend because of visa-related challenges. No mother should miss the opportunity to witness her child make history.”
Vozinha, 40, played a pivotal role in Cape Verde’s memorable World Cup debut, producing seven crucial saves to earn the Player of the Match award. However, despite the achievement, the veteran goalkeeper became emotional after the game as he reflected on the absence of his loved ones.
“I’m crying because I was raised by my grandparents, and sadly they are no longer here. They passed away a few years ago, and they meant everything to me,” he said.
He also expressed sadness over his mother’s inability to attend the match.
“My mother couldn’t make it because of the costs involved in obtaining a visa. We were unable to complete the process in time. I really wish she could have been here,” Vozinha added.
In response, the U.S. State Department said it was taking steps to assist the player’s family.
A State Department official told The Athletic that there was no record of the goalkeeper’s mother having applied for a visa. The official noted that relatives of World Cup players are eligible for visa bond waivers and said the department was actively contacting the family to facilitate visa arrangements.