A Mother’s Journey: From Cape Verde to the World Cup
June 22, 2026
As Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha took his place at the World Cup, his thoughts were with one person: his mother, hoping she could witness his dream in person.
Through the dedication of many individuals, that hope became reality.
Vozinha’s mother in the stands / BBC screenshot
Ana Candida Evora, the mother of the seasoned 40-year-old goalkeeper, embarked on a journey from Cape Verde to the United States, a trip that spanned more than 24 hours. It was an experience she never thought possible.
“I didn’t even have a passport. It is the first time I have left Cabo Verde,” Evora said.
Just days prior, her presence at the tournament seemed unattainable. Complexities with visa processing and associated costs presented significant hurdles. However, after Vozinha’s poignant remarks post-match against Spain gained widespread attention, a wave of support ensued.
Tearfully, Vozinha had expressed his wish for his late grandparents to watch him play on the grandest stage of football and conveyed hope for his mother’s attendance despite visa challenges.
This emotional appeal prompted a series of efforts.
Collaborations between the U.S. State Department, FIFA, U.S. lawmakers, and Cape Verde’s football federation opened pathways for Evora’s journey to Miami, enabling her attendance at the tournament.
Upon her arrival, she was warmly welcomed by FIFA officials and volunteers at the airport.
Her presence meant she could finally experience the joy of watching her son represent Cape Verde on a global platform in person.
Vozinha / Instagram
Her timely arrival coincided with a significant moment in Vozinha’s career, as he captivated international audiences, rapidly increasing his Instagram followers from around 50,000 to over 15 million.
Yet for Evora, the defining moment was not found in the fame nor the media coverage.
It was the fulfillment of being present in the stands, proudly witnessing her son achieve his dreams while showcasing Cape Verde to the world.
