The first major surprise of the 2026 World Cup arrived on Monday in Atlanta. Tipped as one of the tournament favorites, Spain were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by Cape Verde.
Ninety minutes of relentless pressure were not enough for La Roja. Despite dominating possession with 74% of the ball and firing 23 shots, Spain failed to find a breakthrough. Pedri, Rodri, Ferran Torres and even Lamine Yamal, who returned from injury as a second-half substitute, were all denied by an inspired Vozinha. The 40-year-old Cape Verde goalkeeper delivered a heroic performance to earn a historic point for the Blue Sharks.
France Benefits from Spain’s Slip-Up
This unexpected result already puts Spain in a more complicated position in Group H. If Luis de la Fuente’s side fail to finish top of the group, they could end up on a different side of the knockout bracket from France.
That scenario could work perfectly for Didier Deschamps’ men. By winning their own group, France could potentially avoid Spain until a possible World Cup final on July 19 in New Jersey.
Before looking too far ahead, however, Les Bleus must first take care of business against Senegal, Iraq and Norway. One thing is certain: after Spain’s opening setback, there are plenty of smiles in the French camp. Now they just need to make the most of it.
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