WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The United States State Department is working to help the mother of Cape Verde football goalkeeper Vozinha travel to the US to watch her son play at the World Cup, an official said Tuesday.

According to CNN, the move comes after Vozinha revealed following Cape Verde's 0-0 draw with Spain on Monday that his mother was unable to attend the match due to visa-related bond requirements she could not afford.

"She didn't manage to be here because of the visa . the money we have to pay for the visa," he said after the match. "We didn't manage on time, and I would like her to be here."

Cape Verde is among several countries whose citizens are required under current US policy to pay a visa bond of up to US$15,000 (RM61,000)...