World Cup debutants Cabo Verde produced one of the biggest surprises of the tournament so far after holding European champions Spain to a goalless draw in Group H.
Backed by a population of just over 500,000, the Blue Sharks delivered a disciplined defensive display in Atlanta to secure a famous point against Luis de la Fuente’s star-studded side.
Spain dominated possession but struggled to break down a well-organised Cabo Verde team. Ferran Torres came closest in the first half when he struck the crossbar after being played in by Marc Cucurella, before Mikel Oyarzabal’s follow-up header was brilliantly saved by veteran goalkeeper Vozinha.
The 40-year-old shot-stopper continued his inspired display by producing another excellent save to deny Aymeric Laporte just before half-time.
Spain continued to probe after the restart, with Fabian Ruiz firing over from distance, but Cabo Verde remained resolute. De la Fuente introduced teenage sensation Lamine Yamal in the 71st minute in search of a breakthrough, yet the African side continued to frustrate their illustrious opponents.
Oyarzabal had one final opportunity late on but failed to hit the target as Cabo Verde held firm for a memorable result in their first World Cup appearance.
The draw extended a trend that underpinned Cabo Verde’s qualification campaign, having kept seven clean sheets in 10 qualifiers.
Vozinha was named the Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match after a series of outstanding saves.
Spain midfielder Rodri said, “The team tried, I think we had good fluidity. It’s about fine-tuning those chances we created, because against a team that sits back so much you’re not going to have many, and you know you have to take them. It’s that simple.”
De la Fuente added, “In our heads there’s positivity and a desire to improve. We should have won today’s match with everything that happened, with all the favourable situations we created, but we lacked freshness and clinical edge. We need to keep growing and gaining rhythm.”
FIFA
