Cape Verde hold Spain to shock 0-0 draw on World Cup debut

In one of the biggest shocks of the 2026 World Cup so far, rank outsiders Cape Verde earned a heroic point against European champions Spain, holding the tournament favourites to a 0-0 draw in their Group H opener.

Despite sitting 65 places below Spain in the world rankings, the debutants produced a defensive masterclass that frustrated La Roja throughout the match. 

The hero of the night was 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha, who delivered an inspired performance with seven crucial saves to keep the score level.

Spain dominated possession and created numerous chances, particularly towards the end of the first half. Pedri tested Vozinha early with a tame effort, but the Cape Verde shot-stopper was soon called into action repeatedly. 

He produced a stunning tip-over to deny Mikel Oyarzabal after Ferran Torres had already rattled the crossbar from close range. 

Moments later, Vozinha dived low to his left to thwart Torres again, before producing another fine save to keep out Aymeric Laporte’s header.

Even after coach Luis de la Fuente introduced teenage sensation Lamine Yamal and Mikel Merino from the bench in the 71st minute, Spain struggled to break down Cape Verde’s disciplined defensive rearguard.

Merino’s introduction immediately forced another save from the veteran goalkeeper.

Cape Verde nearly stole all three points late in the game when Diney Borges rose to meet a cross, but his header was well saved by Unai Simón. 

A heroic block from Pico Lopes on Oyarzabal’s effort further preserved the famous result.

The draw marks a historic moment for African football and Cape Verde, proving that on their World Cup debut, they can compete with the very best. 

For Spain, it serves as an early wake-up call ahead of tougher challenges in the group stage.