Cape Verde pulled off a massive World Cup shock on Monday, holding European champions Spain to a 0-0 draw in their Group H opener. Making their tournament debut, the island nation of half a million people frustrated the heavily favoured 2010 champions with a stubbornly organised defence.
While Spain dominated possession, 40-year-old Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha delivered a heroic performance to deny their star-studded lineup. Spain's best chances came late in the first half when Barcelona forward Ferran Torres smashed a close-range shot against the crossbar. Vozinha then tipped Mikel Oyarzabal’s rebound header over the net and made crucial stops against Aymeric Laporte and Pedri to keep the match goalless at the break.
Cape Verde continued to defend resolutely in the second half. Seeking a breakthrough, Spain's head coach Luis de la Fuente introduced teenage winger Lamine Yamal, but the substitution failed to turn the tide.
The dogged Cape Verde side ultimately held on for a famous point, even creating late chances of their own that threatened an even bigger upset. The other Group H teams, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay, are scheduled to meet in Miami later on Monday.
