Tournament debutants Cape Verde delivered one of the biggest surprises of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday after battling to a remarkable 0-0 draw against Spain in their opening Group H encounter.

The African nation, making its first appearance on football's biggest stage, produced a disciplined and resilient performance to frustrate one of the tournament favourites and secure a historic point.

For Spain, the result adds to growing concerns over their recent World Cup performances, with the European giants continuing to struggle for consistency on the global stage.

As expected, Spain controlled possession for large periods of the contest, but Cape Verde's well-organized defensive structure denied them the space needed to create clear-cut chances.

At the heart of the resistance was defender Roberto "Pico" Lopes, who delivered a commanding display at the back and played a crucial role in keeping the Spanish attack at bay.

Despite dominating proceedings, Spain found it difficult to turn possession into meaningful opportunities. Their best chance of the opening half came shortly before the break when Ferran Torres rattled the crossbar from close range after a clever knockdown by Marc Cucurella.

Moments later, Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha produced an excellent reflex save to deny Mikel Oyarzabal and preserve the deadlock.

Cape Verde also showed flashes of ambition going forward, with Dailon Livramento nearly catching Spain off guard before halftime with an audacious long-range attempt from inside his own half.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Spain pushing for a breakthrough while Cape Verde remained compact and disciplined.

Luis de la Fuente introduced teenage sensation Lamine Yamal in search of greater attacking spark, and the youngster immediately injected pace and creativity into Spain's forward play.

However, Cape Verde continued to stand firm. Vozinha once again proved decisive, making another important stop to deny substitute Mikel Merino.

As the clock ticked down, Spain increased the pressure, but Lopes and his defensive colleagues continued to repel every attack. Oyarzabal came close late in the game, only to see his effort blocked by a heroic challenge inside the penalty area.

Cape Verde nearly completed an extraordinary upset in stoppage time when Diney Borges rose highest to meet a cross, but Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simón produced a vital save to prevent a dramatic winner.

When the final whistle sounded, jubilant scenes erupted among the Cape Verde players and supporters, who celebrated a result that will be remembered as one of the greatest moments in the nation's football history.

The draw leaves Group H finely balanced and gives Cape Verde renewed confidence as they prepare for the remaining matches in their maiden World Cup campaign.