FIFA World Cup debutants Cape Verde produced one of the biggest surprises of the tournament so far by holding Spain to a goalless draw in their Group H opener at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Monday.
Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha was the standout performer, making a series of crucial saves to frustrate the 2010 world champions and earn his side a memorable point. The veteran shot-stopper denied Ferran Torres three times in the first half as Spain dominated possession but failed to find a breakthrough.
Spain created enough chances to secure all three points but were left frustrated by poor finishing. Mikel Oyarzabal, Torres and Fabian Ruiz all squandered clear opportunities as Luis de la Fuente’s side struggled to convert their superiority into goals.
The introduction of Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams after the break injected fresh energy into Spain’s attack, but Cape Verde remained disciplined at the back and held firm under sustained pressure.
