World Cup debutants Cape Verde produced one of the tournament’s first major upsets, holding European champions Spain to a remarkable 0-0 draw and earning their first-ever point on football’s biggest stage.
One of the tournament’s biggest surprises arrived on Monday as European champions Spain were held to a goalless draw by World Cup debutants Cape Verde in Group H, capping an unusual day in which all four matches ended level.
Spain dominated possession and created numerous chances but failed to break down a disciplined Cape Verde defence. The standout performer was 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha, whose series of crucial saves secured his country’s first-ever World Cup point and earned widespread praise. Despite recording 27 attempts and controlling most of the game, Spain were unable to find a breakthrough.
In Group G, Belgium were also frustrated after being held 1-1 by Egypt. Emam Ashour gave Egypt a first-half lead before Romelu Lukaku’s second-half introduction changed the momentum, with Belgium eventually levelling through a Mohamed Hany own goal. Egypt came close to claiming a famous victory and left encouraged by their performance.
Group H’s other fixture also finished 1-1 as Saudi Arabia earned a valuable point against Uruguay, leaving the group wide open after the opening round of matches.
Meanwhile, Iran and New Zealand shared the points in an entertaining 2-2 draw in the second Group G match, ensuring that every team in Groups G and H remains level after the first round of fixtures.
The biggest talking point of the day, however, was Cape Verde’s historic result. Entering the tournament as underdogs, the African side frustrated one of the favourites and demonstrated that the expanded 48-team World Cup is already producing unexpected stories. Spain now face added pressure heading into their next match against Saudi Arabia, while Cape Verde will look to build on one of the most memorable results in their football history.
