The 2026 FIFA World Cup has delivered an early shock with Spain being held to a 0-0 draw by 67th-ranked Cape Verde, a result few saw coming before kick-off.
Fresh from their European Championship success, Spain were expected to begin their campaign with a statement victory, but they were frustrated for 90 minutes by a side that refused to be intimidated by the occasion.
Cape Verde approached the contest with clear intent, staying compact, defending in numbers, and making life difficult for Spain in and around the penalty area.
Despite dominating possession for long spells, Spain struggled to create the kind of clear-cut opportunities needed to break the deadlock, with goalkeeper Vozinha delivering a standout performance for Cape Verde.
La Roja's frustrating draw with Cape Verde was not just about the opposition's defensive discipline; several of Luis de la Fuente's selection calls also came under scrutiny, including the decision to start Ferran Torres on the right wing and Gavi in midfield.
The introduction of Lamine Yamal in the 71st minute sparked a new level of urgency and creativity for Spain, who immediately looked sharper, quicker, and far more threatening.
The statistics highlighted just how well the underdogs executed their plan, with Spain enjoying 74 per cent possession but struggling to break through a compact and organised defence.
For De la Fuente, there is a lesson to be learned, as Spain's decline after their glory years was often linked to a lack of pace, directness, and attacking unpredictability out wide.
