Adedokun Waliyu Cape Verde produced the first major upset of the 2026 FIFA World Cup by holding Spain to a goalless draw in their Group H match.
Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha was overcome with emotion after the final whistle as the World Cup debutants withstood relentless Spanish pressure to earn a hard-fought point at Atlanta Stadium.
Spain dominated the match, registering 23 shot attempts, but failed to find a way past the inspired 40-year-old goalkeeper.
Cape Verde delivered a disciplined defensive performance against the former world champions, who started the match without Lamine Yamal as he continued his return from injury. Yamal was introduced in the 71st minute.
Vozinha produced one of the finest performances of his career, making eight crucial saves to deny Spain throughout the encounter.
Even the arrival of Yamal could not change the outcome, as the Blue Sharks maintained their defensive shape and frustrated one of the tournament favourites until the final whistle.
Cape Verde will next face Uruguay on Sunday before taking on Saudi Arabia on June 27.
Spain, widely regarded as one of the favourites to win the World Cup, will aim to recover from the disappointing result when they face Saudi Arabia on Sunday and Uruguay on June 27.
