Former World Champions and reigning European champions Spain were held to a goalless draw by debutants Cape Verde in their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener in Atlanta on Monday evening, www.aclsports.com reports.
In what was seen as a David vs Goliath clash, the African underdogs, inspired by 40-year-old goalkeeper Josimar Dias “Vozinha”, rose to the occasion at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
The match quickly took its expected shape, with Cape Verde sitting deep and defending in numbers, while the much-fancied Spain struggled to create clear chances in the opening stages. Roberto ‘Pico’ Lopes, who has spent most of his football career in Ireland, did well to clear some of the deliveries into the box, leaving the 2010 WC champions looking short on ideas.
However, Ferran Torres wasted a great chance by hitting the crossbar from close range after Marc Cucurella headed the ball back across goal. Moments later, Mikel Oyarzabal was denied by 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha, ensuring the underdogs went into the break level.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Spain dominating possession while nerves began to creep in. A wayward cross from Torres almost caught goalkeeper Vozinha off guard, but for much of the game, luck seemed the only thing that could break the deadlock.
Despite the late introduction of stars Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, who were in doubt heading into this contest, did little to alter the result of the contest, as the Island nation made their way to an exceptional point.
For Group H, attention now turns to Uruguay vs Saudi Arabia, with both teams sensing a big opportunity after Spain’s surprise slip-up. On match day two, it will be Cape Verde against Uruguay and Saudi Arabia against Spain.
Meanwhile, Cape Verde’s historic draw has shown they cannot be underestimated, extending their impressive run to six wins and one draw in their last seven matches.
