Spain’s 2026 World Cup campaign got off to a frustrating start on Monday after Luis de la Fuente’s side were held to a shock 0-0 draw by tournament debutants Cape Verde in Atlanta.
La Roja arrived in the US as one of the favourites to lift the trophy, but they were unable to break down a stubborn Cape Verde defence despite dominating possession and creating several clear chances at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
The biggest obstacle proved to be Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, who produced a string of important saves to deny Spain throughout the match.
Ferran Torres came closest in the first half when he struck the crossbar after being picked out by Marc Cucurella. The rebound fell to Mikel Oyarzabal, but his header was kept out by the inspired goalkeeper.
Spain continued to push after the break but struggled to find a way through.
Much of the crowd’s excitement centred on the return of Barcelona star Lamine Yamal, who made his first appearance since suffering an injury in April.
The 18-year-old injected energy into Spain’s attack after coming on, although signs of rust were evident after nearly two months out of action.
Yamal did create one of Spain’s best opportunities of the second half, but Mikel Merino was unable to convert.
Late introductions for Dani Olmo and Nico Williams also failed to change the outcome as Cape Verde held firm and even threatened on the counterattack in the closing stages.
The result leaves Spain with work to do in Group H, where tougher tests may still lie ahead.
What happens next?
While the draw is far from a disaster, it means Spain can no longer afford to take anything for granted in the group stage.
De la Fuente’s side now face Saudi Arabia and Uruguay in their remaining Group H fixtures and will likely need a strong result in at least one of those matches to ensure progression to the knockout rounds.
The performance will also raise questions about Spain’s cutting edge in front of goal. Despite controlling large parts of the game, they lacked the clinical finishing expected of a team being tipped to challenge for the title.
For Cape Verde, meanwhile, the point represents one of the biggest results in the nation’s football history.
The Blue Sharks frustrated one of world football’s heavyweights and showed they will not be pushovers in their first-ever World Cup appearance.
Spain remains among the favourites to progress from the group, but after an underwhelming opening night, the pressure is already building ahead of the clash with Saudi Arabia.
