Spain suffer shock draw against Cabo Verde at World Cup 2026

Spain failed to beat Cabo Verde in their FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage match. The game in Atlanta ended 0-0 and became one of the biggest shocks of the tournament so far.

For Cabo Verde, it was their first match in World Cup history, and the team immediately achieved a result that will go down in the history of the country’s football. The World Cup debutants managed to hold the reigning European champions and claimed their first-ever point at the tournament.

Spain dominated for almost the entire match and created a huge number of chances. Luis de la Fuente’s side registered 27 shots and produced 2.29 xG, but still could not find a way through their opponent’s defence.

The main hero of the match was Cabo Verde’s 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha. He saved his team several times after dangerous Spanish attempts, including in the first half, when he denied difficult efforts from Mikel Oyarzabal and Aymeric Laporte. Spain also had a big chance when Ferran Torres hit the crossbar.

In the second half, Spain continued to apply pressure. Lamine Yamal came off the bench in the 71st minute, and Spain’s attacks immediately became faster and more dangerous. However, Cabo Verde remained well organised, defended with great determination and did not allow the favourites to score a winning goal.

The 0-0 draw became a historic result for Cabo Verde and a serious setback for Spain at the start of the tournament. Uruguay and Saudi Arabia are also in the same group and will play their match later today.