Debutants, Cape Verde, shocked the world and European giants Spain by forcing them to a goalless draw in their first game at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Despite the gulf in world rankings—Spain sitting 61 places above their opponents, the Euro 2024 champions struggled to convert their dominance into goals, as Cape Verde stayed compact, disciplined, and difficult to break down throughout the contest.
Spain controlled large spells of possession and repeatedly pushed forward in search of a breakthrough, but their finishing lacked precision in key moments, allowing the underdogs to grow in confidence as the game wore on.
Cape Verde’s resistance was anchored by an outstanding performance from veteran goalkeeper Vozinha, 40, who produced a series of crucial saves to keep Spain frustrated and preserve a historic clean sheet for his side.
In the second half, Spain introduced Lamine Yamal from the bench in an attempt to inject creativity and pace into their attack, but even the Barcelona teenager was unable to unlock Cape Verde’s resolute defence.
The result leaves Group H finely poised, with Saudi Arabia and Uruguay set to meet later on Monday in the other group fixture, a match that could further shape the early standings.
