Spain held to goalless draw by Cape Verde in 2026 World Cup opener

Spain were held to a 0-0 draw by Cape Verde in their Group H match at the 2026 World Cup, one of the early surprises of the tournament. Cape Verde, making their first appearance at a World Cup, defended with discipline against one of the favored teams and frustrated Spain's attack throughout the game. Spain dominated possession and created several dangerous chances, but Cape Verde's goalkeeper and organized defense kept the ball out of the net. Spanish players also failed to convert a number of clear opportunities, while the African side showed tactical maturity in their first-ever World Cup match. The result gives both teams their first point in Group H, which also includes Uruguay and Saudi Arabia. Further details on the tournament schedule were not immediately available.