Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha became an overnight sensation after his stellar performance in a 0-0 draw against Spain, gaining 6 million new social media followers. But his post-match tears were bittersweet, as he revealed his mother couldn't attend due to a costly US travel bond.

'I cried because I grew up with my grandparents and they passed away years ago. They were everything to me. My mother couldn't make it because of the visa. We couldn't pay the bond on time,' Vozinha told reporters.

Visa issues have plagued the World Cup in the United States. Cape Verde citizens must post a refundable bond of up to $15,000 before traveling. Citizens of Haiti, Ivory Coast, Iran, and Senegal are banned entirely, while many fans from other countries have reported visa rejections.

Iran's coach Amir Ghalenoei claimed his team is being 'oppressed' after being forced to leave the US immediately following their 2-2 draw with New Zealand. The team, based in Tijuana, Mexico, was not allowed to stay overnight in Los Angeles for recovery.

'We were supposed to stay here tonight and return tomorrow lunchtime, but they didn't permit us. I have no idea why. I think our team is the most oppressed one in the whole World Cup,' Ghalenoei said.

Forward Mehdi Taremi said the restrictions put Iran at a competitive disadvantage. He noted that FIFA President Gianni Infantino visited the dressing room and promised help, but it hasn't materialized.

Iran is also competing without several officials and media staff who couldn't obtain visas, forcing coaches to take on extra duties on the bench.

Source: www.dw.com