Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha's mother emotional at World Cup
Short overview
Ana Candida Evora watched her son Vozinha play for Cape Verde at the World Cup for the first time, as the team held Uruguay to a 2-2 draw. The goalkeeper's Instagram following surged from 50,000 to over 15 million during the tournament.
Cape Verde fans in Miami erupted in relief when a potential Uruguay goal was disallowed for offside in the 68th minute, preserving a 2-2 draw against the former world champions. Goalkeeper Vozinha, who had already impressed against Spain, delivered another standout performance, earning chants from the stands.
Among the thousands of supporters was Ana Candida Evora, Vozinha's mother, watching her son play at the World Cup for the first time. She had arrived in the United States just two days before the match, having never left Cape Verde before. 'It was so emotional. My heart was in my mouth. But today luck was on our side,' she told FIFA.
Family reunion and emotional journey
Evora, who did not have a passport until recently, described the experience as 'wonderful, absolutely wonderful.' She added, 'He has been through so much. It's hugely emotional, but he had a good game and he'll do it again.'
Vozinha, who turned 40 just before the tournament, has seen his Instagram following skyrocket from 50,000 to more than 15 million. 'It's been crazy,' he said, noting he has struggled to reply to all the messages.
Fan support and national pride
Defender Pico Lopes noted the strong presence of Uruguay fans but said Cape Verde supporters made themselves heard. At half-time, fan Rafael, a 29-year-old engineer from Rhode Island, said, 'For such a small country, after fighting so hard to get here, it means everything. Our mantra is to stand together and go all the way.'
Vozinha received a louder cheer than Real Madrid star Federico Valverde when lineups were announced, and the crowd roared when he dribbled past Uruguay's Maxi Araujo after the disallowed goal. 'It is a dream come true for us and for all Cabo Verdeans,' Vozinha said. 'What I saw out there today was a strong team with a really great attitude.'
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