Cape Verde goalkeeper Josimar ‘Vozinha’ Dias is set for an emotional reunion with his mother after United States authorities expedited arrangements to ensure she can attend the next FIFA World Cup match in 2026, turning one of the tournament’s most touching stories into a heart-wrenching reality.The development was announced by US House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries, who revealed that efforts involving the US State Department, the government of Cabo Verde and FIFA had cleared the way for Vozinha’s mother to travel to the United States in time for Sunday’s clash against Uruguay in Miami. Sharing the news on X, Jeffries wrote: “Cape Verde’s star goalkeeper Vozinho and his mother will be reunited in Miami in time for the game on Sunday. Thank you to Secretary Rubio, US State Department officials, the Government of Cabo Verde and FIFA for working together to make this happen.”Jeffries later explained that he intervened after learning of the veteran goalkeeper’s emotional comments following Cape Verde’s historic World Cup debut.“That joy was tempered a bit when Vozinha tearfully revealed that his own mother was unable to watch his iconic performance in person due to visa complications. No mother should miss the chance to see her child make history,” Jeffries said. “After learning about this development, I spoke to the Secretary of State Marco Rubio and asked the State Department to do everything in their power to ensure that his mother could attend the next Cabo Verde game.”He added that all fees have been waived and travel arrangements for the reunion are being finalized.
The heroics against Spain captured the world’s imagination
The announcement came just two days after the 40-year-old emerged as the hero of Cape Verde’s incredible 0-0 draw against Spain in Atlanta, one of the biggest shocks of the first round.The World Cup debutants frustrated the reigning European champions despite Spain taking 27 shots, equaling their highest number of shots in a World Cup match without scoring.Vozinha produced a masterclass between the posts, making seven saves and winning the man of the match award after denying Mikel Oyarzabal, Ferran Torres, Aymeric Laporte, Mikel Merino and Marco Cucurella.
‘I cried after the game’
Behind the celebration, however, lay a deeply personal story.Speaking after the historic result, an emotional Vozinha revealed that his mother was unable to attend due to visa complications and financial hurdles.“I cried after the game because I grew up with my grandparents when I was a kid and they couldn’t be there. They passed away a few years ago. My mom couldn’t be here either because of the visa issues and the money we had to pay for it. We couldn’t make it in time,” he said.The goalkeeper also dedicated the result to the fans at home.“This is a message of thanks to everyone in Cape Verde. We are very happy after this; this group of players worked hard to live this moment. “This is a day for pride and satisfaction,” he said. One of the smallest nations ever to qualify for the FIFA World CupCape Verde has already captured the imagination of soccer fans around the world with its underdog spirit.Now, as the Blue Sharks prepare to face Uruguay in a crucial Group H encounter, Vozinha will have something even more special to look forward to.
