Cape Verde made a dream start to their maiden World Cup appearance by holding tournament favourites Spain to a goalless draw in Group H.
The result came as a major shock, with Spain — ranked second in the world heading into the tournament — extending their poor run at the World Cup finals to just one win in their last seven matches.
As expected, Spain dominated possession from the outset, but Cape Verde defended resolutely, packing players behind the ball and frustrating the 2010 world champions throughout the contest.
Defender Roberto Lopes, popularly known as Pico, produced several crucial interventions, while forward Dailon Livramento nearly caught Spain off guard with an ambitious attempt from the halfway line.
Spain came closest to scoring just before halftime when Ferran Torres struck the crossbar from close range after a headed pass from Marc Cucurella. Moments later, veteran goalkeeper Vozinha brilliantly denied Mikel Oyarzabal to keep the scores level.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Spain struggling to break down Cape Verde’s disciplined defence as frustration grew among their players and supporters.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente eventually introduced teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who immediately injected pace and creativity into the attack. His cross created a promising chance for substitute Mikel Merino, but Vozinha was once again equal to the task.
The 40-year-old goalkeeper delivered a remarkable performance, making seven saves to help his side secure a famous point.
Spain had one final opportunity to snatch victory late on, but Oyarzabal’s effort was heroically blocked by Lopes.
Cape Verde almost produced an even bigger upset deep into stoppage time when Diney Borges powered a header towards goal, only for Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simón to make a vital save and prevent what would have been one of the greatest shocks in World Cup history.
The result leaves Group H wide open and raises fresh questions about Spain’s credentials as one of the tournament favourites.
