FIFA World Cup debutants Cape Verde produced an extraordinary performance to secure a 0-0 draw with global heavyweights Spain. A nation of just over 500,000 people, Cape Verde were superbly organised from back to front.
While Spain predictably enjoyed the lion’s share of possession, they were frustrated for large periods by their spirited and fiercely-determined opponents. La Roja’s clearest first-half opening came when Ferran Torres struck the crossbar after being set up by Marc Cucurella. The ball rebounded to Mikel Oyarzabal, whose instinctive header forced a superb save from 40-year-old Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha. The Blue Sharks had some sporadic forays into the attacking third, too, giving their defenders some much-needed respite.
Early in the second period, Fabian Ruiz curled an effort over the bar from range, but a Spanish onslaught did not materialise as Cape Verde continued to stand firm. On 71 minutes, De la Fuente called for Lamine Yamal off the bench – and the teenage sensation’s presence immediately changed the complexion of the game. Spain’s attacks now had an extra degree of dynamism and unpredictability, but Cape Verde marshalled him well and gilt-edged chances still proved tough to come by. Oyarzabal had another opportunity late in the piece, but shot off target as Cape Verde held on to bank a sensational point.
