Spain Player Ratings vs. Cabo Verde: La Roja Left Frustrated Against Minnows

Spain were held to a 0-0 draw by Cabo Verde in their 2026 World Cup opener at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Cabo Verde's 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha produced four saves in the first half, including tipping Mikel Oyarzabal's header after Ferran Torres' shot hit the post. Spain pressed in the second half with an xG above two, but could not break down the debutants, whose performance marked a historic moment for the small nation. Spain's two returning wingers, Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, were eased back after injuries, leaving a temporary void in the attack. Yamal came on in the 70th minute and drew the loudest cheer of the night but failed to change the balance. Operating in a 4-3-3, the side's better-known names delivered chances but were unable to convert as patience among the crowd wore thin. While the result does not endanger Spain's qualification hopes, it exposes areas Spain must address against tougher group-stage opponents. Cabo Verde's upset status, as FIFA's 67th-ranked team on debut, underscored Spain's need for more dynamism in attack. Spain will aim to rebound in their next group game as they pursue a place in the knockout rounds.