Tearful Cape Verde keeper Vozinha explains why his mother couldn’t watch him at World Cup

FootballSports
17 Jun 2026 • 12:23 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Tearful Cape Verde keeper Vozinha explains why his mother couldn’t watch him at World Cup

  • Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha delivered a heroic performance, keeping a clean sheet against Spain and securing his country's first World Cup point on their debut.
  • Vozinha revealed his mother was unable to attend the match in Atlanta due to the high cost of a US visa and a required returnable bond of up to $15,000.
  • The 40-year-old goalkeeper expressed emotional sadness over his mother's absence and the loss of his grandparents, who were significant figures in his life.
  • Despite the personal disappointment, Vozinha, who was named man of the match, shared his pride in his team's unity and their determination to compete at the World Cup.
  • Cape Verde, making their World Cup debut, are set to face Uruguay and Saudi Arabia in their upcoming group stage matches.

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