By Izuchukwu Okosi
Spain was handed a rude shock Monday evening in their opening Group H game in the 2026 FIFA World Cup as they were held to a scoreless draw by debutants Cabo Verde.
The 2010 World Cup winners were the overwhelming favourites to claim all three points in the game but found the Africans a difficult opposition.
Spain wasted numerous scoring chances against the side ranked 67th in the latest FIFA world rankings and the third smallest nation among the participants at the tournament.
Cape Verde standout performer was 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha ego pulled several world class saves much to the frustration of the European champions.
Lamine Yamal was introduced off the substitute bench in the second half and that brought a bit of urgency for Spain but the tiny African islands were immovable and saw off the threat from the galaxy of stars from Spain.
Barcelona forward Ferran Torres was presented with Spain’s best chance in the first half when he connected with Marc Cucurella’s header back across the six-yard box, but saw his fierce effort hit the crossbar under pressure from the elastic Vozinha.
Mikel Oyarzabal also had his shot blocked by Shamrock Rovers’ Roberto Lopes as the game petered away.
