Spain Held by Cape Verde in Shock World Cup Opener

Spain, one of the leading favorites for the 2026 World Cup and the reigning European champion, was held to a stunning 0-0 draw by Cape Verde on Monday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta in the opening match of Group H. For Cape Verde, it was its first-ever World Cup appearance, and the African side earned a historic point by frustrating a far stronger opponent.

The result triggered sharp backlash in Spain. Columnist Tomas Roncero blasted the team, saying, "Enough with the nonsense, the scientists and the presentations. Disaster. This is a hard lesson in humility, and this way we will not get anywhere." Marca called the side "soulless and impotent," while former Barcelona coach Xavi criticized Ferran Torres after his close-range effort hit the crossbar, saying such chances must be converted because they can change an entire World Cup.

One bright spot for Spain was Lamine Yamal, who came on as a substitute despite injury concerns and said afterward, "Everything is perfect," adding that he felt no discomfort in his leg. Marc Cucurella avoided the media, apparently to steer clear of questions about his official move to Real Madrid.

The draw may also reshape Spain’s knockout path. If La Roja finishes second in the group, it could face Lionel Messi’s Argentina as early as the round of 32, turning what was supposed to be a manageable route into an immediate test against the defending world champions. Group H also includes Uruguay and Saudi Arabia, and after one round all four teams sit on one point.