At 40, Vozinha makes World Cup history—but almost without his mother watching

At 40 years and 12 days old, Vozinha became the oldest player to debut in a nation's first-ever World Cup match. The Cape Verde Islands goalkeeper produced an elite 9.2-rated performance with seven crucial saves to guide his country to a 0-0 draw against Spain, the Euro 2024 champions. It was an unlikely upset, a clean sheet in a World Cup debut that vindicated decades of perseverance. But in the post-match interview, Vozinha wept not for the milestone itself—he wept because his mother, Ana Candida Evora, a 59-year-old house cleaner from São Vicente, remained barred from attending by a £11,200 U.S. visa deposit requirement. Within hours, U.S. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries stepped in.

A mother's moment, delayed then delivered

Vozinha told goal.com: "I cried because my mum didn't manage to be here because of the visa. I would like her to be here, but I'm also very happy. I have worked my whole life for this moment. I started playing football professionally when I was 25, in 2012. I thought about leaving but I continued because of this dream."

Jeffries coordinated with Secretary of State Marco Rubio to waive all fees. "No mother should miss the chance to see her child make history," Jeffries said. "Vozinha's mom will be able to secure a visa in time to attend their game this Sunday against Uruguay. All fees have been waived consistent with official policy."

Ana Candida's faith had never wavered. She told goal.com: "I said that no ball would enter his goal, and that is exactly what happened. I am very proud to be Vozinha's mother."

Spain's passing prowess, blunted by one man

Spain dominated possession but found no way through Cape Verde Islands' disciplined 4-1-4-1 defence. Midfielder Pedri (8.9 rating) orchestrated 96 passes over 94 minutes with five key passes created, yet Spain's usual attacking avenues were blocked. Lamine Yamal, the Barcelona winger making his World Cup debut after a two-month injury absence, entered with 23 minutes remaining and momentarily lifted Spain's rhythm with two successful dribbles. "Everything will turn out just as we hope," Yamal said post-match, striking a defiant tone despite Spain's flatness. "Have no doubt about that."

But one point was all the Euro 2024 champions could muster—and all four of Group H's opening-round teams ended on identical points, a rare and stark result that exposed Spain's creative vulnerability without their key attacking talents.

Vozinha and his mother now prepare for Sunday.