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Cape Verde Stun Spain in World Cup 2026 Major Upset

Sky Sports Champions League •
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Cape Verde produced one of the biggest shocks in World Cup history by holding tournament favorites Spain to a goalless draw in Atlanta. The African debutants, with a population under 500,000, showed remarkable resilience against a Spanish side expected to dominate Group H. 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha stole the show with seven spectacular saves, denying Mikel Oyarzabal, Ferran Torres, and Aymeric Laporte when Spain finally broke through their defense.

Spain's attack looked toothless throughout the match. Oyarzabal remarkably went 31 minutes without touching the ball, while the team managed 27 shots without finding the net - their highest tally without scoring in a World Cup match since 1966. Substitute Lamine Yamal provided some spark after coming on from injury, but Spain lacked width and creativity in wide areas without key players.

Pico Lopes made 11 clearances and a stunning last-ditch block to deny Spain's winner in the 88th minute. Cape Verde nearly snatched victory themselves through Diney Borges, whose late header was blocked into Unai Simon's path. Vozinha became the oldest player to debut in a nation's first World Cup match at 40 years and 12 days, surpassing Eloy Room's record set just days earlier.

Spain's winless streak now extends to four matches in World Cup tournaments, their longest since 1982-1986. The result raises serious questions about La Roja's attacking capabilities despite their European championship pedigree. This draw gives Cape Verde a fighting chance in Group H while leaving Spain with work to do against Saudi Arabia and Uruguay.