Cabo Verde's Goalkeeper Vozinha's Mother Welcomed by FIFA Ahead of Uruguay Match
A Heartwarming Gesture from FIFA
In Miami, FIFA extended a warm welcome to Ana Candida Evora, the mother of Cabo Verde's goalkeeper Josimar 'Vozinha' Dias, as the team prepares for their Group H match against Uruguay on Sunday (local time).
This gesture follows an emotional moment when Vozinha expressed his feelings about his family's absence during Cabo Verde's historic 0-0 draw against Spain, which was their first match in the tournament. He highlighted that visa issues prevented his family from attending.
After Vozinha's heartfelt comments gained significant attention, U.S. authorities, in collaboration with the State Department, the Cape Verde government, and FIFA, arranged for his mother to travel to support her son in the upcoming game.
U.S. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries confirmed that efforts were being made to ensure her attendance at the match, showcasing the diplomatic support that facilitated this timely resolution.
On Sunday, FIFA shared several videos on social media platform X, showcasing Vozinha's mother during her visit to the FIFA office in Miami before the match against Uruguay.
FIFA expressed their delight in welcoming her, stating, "After watching her son shine against Spain, we were thrilled to host the mother of Cabo Verde goalkeeper Vozinha at our Miami office."
A Message of Support from Vozinha's Mother
In another video shared online, Vozinha's mother conveyed her gratitude to football fans around the globe and sent an uplifting message to the Cabo Verde team, affectionately known as the "Blue Sharks."
The mum of Cabo Verde goalkeeper Vozinha sends a message of thanks to football fans worldwide!
"Strength and courage, Blue Sharks!" – her message to Cabo Verde ahead of attending their match against Uruguay in Miami. pic.twitter.com/rr1AOTsD05
— FIFA (@FIFAcom) June 21, 2026
She expressed, "I want to thank all the fans and everyone who assisted in this process for the support given to the team, especially to Cabo Verde. We are all cheering for Cabo Verde to perform well and shine on the field. The players need to believe, and everything will turn out fine. Keep your heads high, go onto that pitch, strive for a goal, and you will perform beautifully, my boys. A kiss for you, be strong and brave. Blue Sharks."
Vozinha's Stellar Performance
Vozinha emerged as a key player in Cabo Verde's impressive 0-0 draw against Spain, marking one of the tournament's biggest surprises. His performance included a series of crucial saves that helped the World Cup debutants secure a point against the reigning European champions.
The 40-year-old goalkeeper made seven saves, earning the title of Player of the Match after thwarting attempts from notable players like Mikel Oyarzabal and Ferran Torres, among others.
As one of the smallest nations to compete in a FIFA World Cup, Cabo Verde aims to build on their remarkable start as they prepare to face Uruguay, with Vozinha's mother cheering from the stands.