Spain, considered one of the strongest contenders for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, were put on the back foot in their very first match. Cape Verde, the African nation playing its first World Cup, forced a powerhouse like Spain to settle for a draw.
The nation of 10 islands, or volcanic islands, had declared before the match that they should not be underestimated. They came out with excellent homework, and their defence kept Spain under immense pressure.
Cape Verde have now secured one point and are dreaming of advancing to the Round of 32. Stars like Yamal also failed to score. Even the world’s best strikers could not break down the Cape Verde wall in the final 20 minutes.
But Spain’s passing was accurate. They enjoyed 74% possession compared to Cape Verde’s 26%. Moreover, Spain registered 8 shots on target with 92% passing accuracy.
However, 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha proved to be an impenetrable wall for Spain, and Cape Verde did not allow them a chance to score against him.
By holding Spain to a draw, Cape Verde shared the spoils with a 1-1 scoreline, which was no less than a big win for Cape Verde.
