Mother of World Cup 'Cape Verde miracle' keeper Vozinha: 'Be strong and brave, my sons'

Vozinha (Roschmar Jose Evora Dias), the 40-year-old goalkeeper hailed as the "Cape Verde miracle" of the 2026 North and Central America World Cup, is set for an emotional reunion with his mother ahead of Cape Verde's Group H second-round match against Uruguay.

Ana Candida Evora, Vozinha's mother, expressed her gratitude Monday through FIFA's official social media channels. "I want to thank all the fans and everyone who helped along the way," she said. "Thank you for the support shown to our team, and particularly to the Cape Verde national team."

She said the whole family was united behind the squad. "We are all rooting with one heart for Cape Verde to shine on the pitch and put on a great performance," she said. "If the players believe, everything will work out."

She had a direct message for the players: "Walk onto that field with your heads held high and push toward goal — then you will put on a truly wonderful match."

She closed with a personal note for the squad. "My sons, I send you kisses. Play strong and brave," she said. "Come on, Blue Sharks!"

Vozinha burst onto the World Cup stage June 16 when he made seven saves in Cape Verde's Group H opener against Spain. His mother, however, was unable to enter the United States due to visa issues, drawing widespread sympathy.

She was later able to travel to the United States with help from American political figures, and will watch her son play in person Monday.

The BBC reported Sunday that Ana Candida Evora was expected to attend the match at a Miami stadium to watch Vozinha face Uruguay in person.

The outlet added that his mother had confirmed her travel plans to BBC journalists in Cape Verde, saying she was "really happy."