SPAIN'S quest for a commanding start to their World Cup campaign was derailed by tournament debutants Cape Verde after the European champions were held to a shock 0-0 draw in their Group H opener, despite dominating possession and territory throughout the contest.
The side managed by Luis de la Fuente controlled large periods of the match held in Atlanta but repeatedly failed to break down a disciplined Cape Verde defence that produced one of the most resilient performances of the opening round.
Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha emerged as the hero of the occasion, producing a string of crucial saves to deny Spain, particularly during a sustained second-half onslaught as the favourites pushed desperately for a breakthrough.
The result delivered a historic point for Cape Verde, ranked 67th in the world, in the nation's first-ever appearance at a FIFA World Cup and immediately established the African side as one of the tournament's early success stories.
Spanish supporters were left frustrated by their side's lack of cutting edge in front of goal after a display that failed to convert dominance into tangible reward.
In contrast, Cape Verde fans celebrated wildly, hailing the result as a landmark achievement for a nation making its debut on football's biggest stage.
The stalemate is widely regarded as one of the first major upsets of the tournament, with unfancied Cape Verde successfully shutting out one of Europe's most decorated teams.
Meanwhile in Seattle, Belgium were denied victory in their opening Group G encounter after Egypt battled to a 1-1 draw in a fiercely contested clash.
Egypt struck first in the 20th minute when Emam Ashour finished a move created by captain Mohamed Salah, handing the African side an early advantage against the higher-ranked Belgians.
Belgium responded by taking control of possession and increasing the pressure as they searched for an equaliser.
Their persistence paid off in the 66th minute when Egypt defender Mohamed Hany inadvertently turned the ball into his own net amid a crowded penalty-area scramble.
Belgium coach introduced experienced striker Romelu Lukaku in the same minute in an attempt to inject greater attacking threat, but neither side was able to find a decisive winner despite several late advances.
The draw leaves both Belgium and Egypt with a point apiece in Group G, while Spain's unexpected stalemate against Cape Verde ensures the opening phase of the World Cup has already delivered significant drama and unpredictability. - June 16, 2026
