Spain held to 0-0 draw by Cape Verde in World Cup opener

Spain opened its World Cup campaign with a goalless draw against Cape Verde in Atlanta, leaving all four teams in Group H level on one point. Coach Luis de la Fuente defended captain Rodri, calling criticism of the midfielder “incredibly insulting” and describing him as “the best player in the world.” Despite creating 27 goal‑scoring chances – matching Spain’s record for most shots without a goal in a World Cup match – the Spanish side could not find a breakthrough. Cape Verde’s disciplined defence, the third‑smallest nation by population to ever compete, limited Spain’s attack and secured one of the tournament’s biggest upsets.

The result sparked tactical analysis of de la Fuente’s lineup, with changes such as Gavi’s role on the left and the use of left‑back Marc Cucurella to create depth. The draw sets up a tightly contested qualification race for the remaining group matches.