Cape Verde began their first-ever FIFA World Cup campaign in impressive fashion, earning a 0-0 draw against Spain and throwing Group H wide open. Remarkably, the side ranked second in the world at kick-off has now managed just one victory in their last seven World Cup finals matches, raising serious questions about their credentials as one of the tournament favourites.
Match Report
The contest unfolded largely as anticipated, with Cape Verde sitting deep and defending in numbers, making life difficult for Spain. Despite being overwhelming favourites, the Spaniards struggled to carve out meaningful opportunities in the opening stages. Roberto ‘Pico’ Lopes, who has made 351 appearances for Shamrock Rovers in the League of Ireland, was particularly effective in dealing with one of Spain’s more threatening deliveries, as the 2010 World Cup winners appeared short of attacking inspiration.
At the other end, Dailon Livramento showed confidence by attempting an ambitious strike from the halfway line as the first half progressed. Spain came agonisingly close to breaking the deadlock before the interval, however. Ferran Torres rattled the crossbar from close range after Marc Cucurella headed the ball back into the danger area, before 40-year-old Vozinha produced a sharp save to deny Mikel Oyarzabal on the rebound, ensuring the underdogs went into the break level.
The pattern remained unchanged after halftime, with tension growing among the Spanish players and supporters alike. Torres almost produced a fortunate opener when a wayward cross nearly caught Vozinha out, but for much of the second half it seemed that only a slice of luck could separate the sides. The Tubarões Azuis remained disciplined and organised defensively, rarely allowing Spain clear openings.
Seeking a breakthrough, De la Fuente introduced Lamine Yamal despite concerns over his fitness before the match, and the youngster immediately brought greater energy and creativity. Soon after entering the game, his work on the right flank created a promising chance for fellow substitute Mikel Merino, but Vozinha was equal to it once more. Spain’s best opportunity in the closing stages fell to Oyarzabal, only for Lopes to produce a brave block and keep Cape Verde on course for a famous result.
Deep into stoppage time, Cape Verde nearly turned one point into three in stunning fashion. Diney Borges powered a header goalward from a corner, but Unai Simón made an important save to spare Spain an even greater embarrassment. Attention now turns to Uruguay’s clash with Saudi Arabia in Group H, a match that suddenly carries even greater significance after Spain’s stumble. One thing is certain: Cape Verde can no longer be overlooked, with this historic draw extending their strong run of form to six wins and a draw from their last seven qualifiers.
