Ana Cândida Évora, the mother of Cape Verde’s star goalkeeper Vozinha, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to Chinese fans as she travels to the United States to support her son during the FIFA World Cup.
Évora, who departed from São Vicente in Cape Verde and transited through the capital, Praia, is expected to arrive in Miami in time for Cape Verde’s crucial Group H clash against Uruguay.
Speaking to CGTN before her departure, Évora praised China and its people for their support, describing China as “a very good country and a friend of ours.” She also delivered a special message in Mandarin, saying, “Thank you, Chinese fans.”
Évora’s journey attracted widespread attention after reports emerged that financial difficulties and visa-related costs had prevented her from attending Cape Verde’s opening World Cup match against Spain, where her son delivered a standout performance.
Chinese entrepreneur Lin Jie, originally from Wenzhou and a long-time resident of Cape Verde, played a key role in supporting Évora. Through local connections, Lin established contact with the family shortly after the Spain match and offered assistance.
Lin shared videos on Chinese social media platform Douyin showing Évora and family members celebrating Vozinha’s performance and preparing gifts for his return. He also accompanied her to the airport as she embarked on her journey to the United States.
According to Lin, Cape Verde National Assembly member Josina Freitas helped facilitate the travel arrangements, while the Cape Verde National Football Association covered the costs of Évora’s visa and domestic flights.
The story has resonated strongly with Chinese netizens, becoming a trending topic on social media platform Sina Weibo and garnering millions of views. Many users extended their best wishes after learning that Évora would finally be able to watch her son play on football’s biggest stage.
Reflecting on the long-awaited reunion, Évora told CGTN: “When I see him, I want to give him a mother’s hug and wish him good luck.”
Cape Verde will face Uruguay on Sunday as the Blue Sharks continue their historic World Cup campaign.
