Cape Verde made a dream start to their maiden FIFA World Cup campaign by holding former champions Spain to a remarkable 0-0 draw in their Group H opener, throwing the group wide open.
The tournament debutants produced a disciplined defensive display to frustrate the world’s second-ranked side, who now have just one win in their last seven World Cup matches.
Spain dominated possession throughout the contest but struggled to break down a well-organised Cape Verde defence. Ferran Torres came closest to scoring before halftime when he struck the crossbar from close range, while veteran goalkeeper Vozinha denied Mikel Oyarzabal on the rebound to preserve parity.
Cape Verde continued to stand firm after the break despite mounting Spanish pressure. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente introduced Lamine Yamal in search of a breakthrough, but the teenager’s impact was nullified by another outstanding save from the 40-year-old Vozinha, who kept out substitute Mikel Merino.
Oyarzabal was presented with Spain’s best chance late in the game, only for defender Roberto ‘Pico’ Lopes to produce a crucial block. Cape Verde nearly snatched a famous victory in stoppage time when Diney Borges’ powerful header was brilliantly saved by Unai Simón.
The result represents one of the biggest surprises of the tournament so far and extends Cape Verde’s impressive run of form, having won six and drawn one of their previous seven matches before arriving at the World Cup.
With Uruguay and Saudi Arabia still to play in Group H, Spain’s failure to win has left the group finely balanced, while Cape Verde’s historic point has announced them as genuine contenders.
