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Spain stumble against Cape Verde and begin the World Cup with a draw
Spain began the 2026 World Cup with an unexpected setback. The national team could not get beyond 0–0 against Cape Verde in Atlanta, in a match that appeared favourable on paper but ended up becoming one of the tournament's first surprises.
Luis de la Fuente's team had more possession, spent more time in the opposition half and showed more attacking intent, but lacked clarity in the final third. Cape Verde, making their World Cup debut, held firm with organisation, patience and a highly focused defence throughout the match.
La Roja started with Unai Simón in goal, a defence made up of Marcos Llorente, Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte and Marc Cucurella, and a midfield offering plenty of control through Rodri, Fabián Ruiz and Pedri. Up front, Ferran Torres, Gavi and Mikel Oyarzabal tried to open up a game that became increasingly tight.
Cape Verde understood very early what they needed to do. They kept their lines close together, protected the penalty area and prevented Spain from finding comfortable spaces through the middle. Every minute without conceding reinforced their plan and heightened the sense that the favourites were starting to play against the clock.
Goalkeeper Vozinha was one of the standout names of the match. At 40, he kept his national team in the game with several important saves and gave confidence to a side that celebrated every clearance as a small victory.
Spain turned to their bench in search of more penetration and creativity, with Lamine Yamal among the options used during the second half. The young attacker's introduction enlivened parts of the match, but it was not enough to break down an increasingly confident Cape Verdean defence.
The draw leaves Spain with less room for manoeuvre in Group H, which also includes Uruguay and Saudi Arabia. The national team's fate remains in their own hands, but the opening match means they must make corrections quickly before the coming games.
For Cape Verde, the 0–0 feels historic. In their first World Cup appearance, they managed to halt one of the leading favourites and earn a point worth far more than its effect on the standings: it confirms that they have come to the tournament not just to take part, but also to compete.