After Vozinha's heroics, his mother secures US visa to watch Cape Verde

Summary

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha is set for an emotional reunion at the World Cup after U.S. officials moved to ensure his mother can travel to the United States in time to watch him play against Uruguay on Sunday. The 40-year-old became one of the early stars of the tournament this week after producing a string of outstanding saves to help Cape Verde hold Spain to a shock 0-0 draw in the nation's first-ever World Cup match. But amid the celebrations, Vozinha revealed that his mother, Ana Candida Evora, had been unable to travel to the United States because of visa-related difficulties. That situation is now expected to be resolved. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries announced on Wednesday that he had spoken with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and urged the State Department to do everything possible to ensure Evora could attend Cape Verde's next Group H match in Miami. The issue unfolded against the backdrop of tighter U.S. immigration measures that had initially required citizens from dozens of countries, including Cape Verde, to post bonds of up to $15,000 when seeking entry into the country. According to AP, the State Department had previously said it had no record of Evora applying for a visa but was working with Cape Verdean authorities to resolve the situation. State Department official later told Reuters that visa staff in Praia were working closely with her to complete the process. "We can confirm our visa team in Praia is in close touch with her and providing the needed services," the official said in a statement provided to Reuters.