United News of Bangladesh

US government officials are accelerating travel arrangements for Ana Candida Evora, the mother of Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, ensuring she can attend Sunday’s World Cup match against Uruguay in Miami. The 40-year-old goalkeeper delivered a heroic, seven-save performance during Cape Verde’s historic 0-0 tournament debut against Spain on Monday. However, strict U.S. immigration policies—specifically a "Visa Bond Pilot Program" requiring high financial bonds from certain nationals—prevented his family from attending. Vozinha revealed post-match that unexpected, hefty fees halted their travel plans in time for the opener. The bureaucratic deadlock prompted immediate political intervention. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries contacted Secretary of State Marco Rubio to resolve the issue, leading to a full waiver of all financial fees. On Wednesday, the State Department confirmed that its consular team in Praia is actively providing the necessary visa services. "No mother should miss the chance to see her child make history," Jeffries said, confirming that travel arrangements are underway for a family reunion in Miami. Cape Verde’s veteran keeper, whose social media following skyrocketed to 12.6 million after Monday's draw, will now have his family in the stands for the crucial group-stage fixture.  

Cape Verde produced one of the biggest surprises of the World Cup so far, holding tournament favourites Spain to a goalless draw in the island nation's first-ever appearance at football's biggest stage. Veteran goalkeeper Vozinha was the hero for Cape Verde, delivering an outstanding performance at the age of 40 to frustrate the European champions throughout the match. The underdogs even came close to securing a famous victory late on, but Diney Borges' header was brilliantly saved by Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simon. Spain, packed with world-class talent, dominated much of the game but struggled to break down Cape Verde's disciplined defence. Vozinha made a series of crucial saves, particularly in the first half, to keep the score level. Spain's best chance before the break fell to Barcelona forward Ferran Torres, whose powerful effort struck the crossbar. Torres later tested Vozinha again, but the goalkeeper was equal to the task. Vozinha also denied midfielder Pedri and made another important save late in the first half as Spain continued to push for an opener. Cape Verde, an Atlantic island nation with a population of around 500,000, is making its World Cup debut and showed little sign of being overwhelmed by the occasion. Spain, the 2010 World Cup champions, are seeking a second world title. However, coach Luis de la Fuente had warned before the match that Cape Verde could emerge as one of the surprise teams of the tournament. The African side continued to defend resolutely after the break, and even the introduction of teenage sensation Lamine Yamal failed to help Spain find a breakthrough. The final whistle confirmed a memorable result for Cape Verde and a disappointing start for one of the tournament's favourites.