Cape Verde caused a sensation at the 2026 World Cup by defeating Spain
16 June 03:56
The Spanish national team failed to beat Cape Verde in the first round of the group stage of the 2026 World Cup. The Group H match ended in a scoreless draw—0–0. This was reported by "Komersant Ukrainian", citing the match broadcast.
For Cape Verde, this was a historic result: the team made its World Cup debut and immediately took points from one of the tournament favorites—the reigning European champion.
Spain dominated but failed to score
The Spaniards controlled the game for almost the entire match and had a significant statistical advantage. The team had 74% possession, while Cape Verde had 26%.
Over 90 minutes, Spain took 27 shots on goal, 7 of which were on target. Cape Verde responded with 6 shots, only one of which was on target.
Despite this dominance, the Spaniards were unable to break through their opponent’s organized defense.
Man of the Match — Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha
One of the main heroes of the match was Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha. He saved his team several times after dangerous moments near the goal and became a key figure in the sensational draw.
The 40-year-old goalkeeper was named the best player of the match after a series of crucial saves.
Cape Verde held firm under pressure
Cape Verde relied on disciplined defense and compact play without the ball. The team took almost no risks but played very organized and did not allow Spain to create enough quality scoring chances.
According to Football24 statistics, Spain completed 801 passes compared to 279 for Cape Verde, and also took 11 corner kicks compared to their opponent’s single one. At the same time, the score remained 0-0.
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Lamine Yamal came off the bench
One of the highlights of the match was the appearance of Lamine Yamal. The young leader of the Spanish national team started the game on the bench and entered the field during the match.
However, even his entrance did not help Spain break through Cape Verde’s defense. The African team withstood the final pressure and earned their first point at the World Cup.
Cape Verde’s first point at the World Cup
For Cape Verde, this match is of historic significance. The team is playing in the World Cup for the first time, and in the very first round managed to avoid defeat against one of the tournament’s strongest opponents.
The draw with Spain was one of the first major upsets of the 2026 World Cup.
Standings in Group H
After this match, Spain and Cape Verde each have one point. The other first-round match in Group H—Uruguay vs. Saudi Arabia—will determine the group’s first leader.
For Spain, such a draw in the opening match could complicate the fight for first place in the group. Cape Verde, on the other hand, received a powerful psychological boost ahead of the upcoming rounds.
Why the result was a sensation
Spain entered the match as the clear favorite. The team boasts one of the strongest rosters in the tournament, the status of European champions, and significant experience in major competitions.
Cape Verde, on the other hand, is making its World Cup debut. That is precisely why the 0-0 draw against Spain was a true soccer surprise.
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