Mother of Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, Ana Candida Evora, couldn't make it to World Cup. U.S. visa costs too steep. Her absence keenly felt during team's goalless draw with Spain,where Vozinha shone.
Hakeem Jeffries, Democratic leader of U.S. House,urged Secretary of State Marco Rubio to step in,help Evora attend future matches. Jeffries stressed, “no mother should miss the chance to see her child make history.” The emotional weight clear.
Evora's travel blocked by bond requirement from previous administration . Affected certain countries,including Cape Verde.
Last month, U.S. waived bond for World Cup ticket holders, trying to ease travel. But too late for Evora . She'd already decided against 6,400 km trip to Atlanta. Financial strain too much. “I would have loved to travel and watch the match, but it was not possible,” she said.
Vozinha,real name Josimar Dias, shared his dismay.
A State Department official mentioned no record of Evora applying.
Immigration hurdles have hit tournament early . Somali referee Omar Artan couldn't enter U.S . to officiate. Iranian staff faced same visa issues . Some teams, like Iran,relocated bases to Mexico.
Cape Verde football federation president Mario Semedo highlighted broader travel challenges. Costs for World Cup — airfare,accommodation, tickets — are tough. “It is not easy for Cape Verdean,” he noted.
Semedo pushed for balanced immigration approach . Family members of players need easier travel. “If a player's family member wants to attend the tournament,every effort should be made to facilitate that,” he said. Policies that support security and accessibility…
