Cape Verde Hold Spain to Shock 0-0 Draw in FIFA World Cup 2026 Opener

Spain Held to Shock 0-0 Draw by World Cup Debutants Cape Verde

Cape Verde produced the biggest upset of FIFA World Cup 2026 so far by holding European champions Spain to a goalless draw in Atlanta.

Making their World Cup debut, the African nation delivered a disciplined defensive performance to frustrate one of the tournament favourites. Spain dominated possession and created several chances through Ferran Torres, Mikel Oyarzabal and Aymeric Laporte, but veteran goalkeeper Vozinha was outstanding between the posts. Barcelona star Lamine Yamal came off the bench in the second half after recovering from injury and injected urgency into Spain’s attack, but the breakthrough never arrived.

Cape Verde nearly snatched a famous victory late on through Dani Borges. The historic point marked a dream start for the tournament debutants.