Spain, one of the pre-tournament title favourites, began their campaign with a disappointing goalless draw against rank outsiders Cape Verde, who are participating in the finals for the first time, on Monday in Atlanta in Group 8 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The result defied expectations that had widely predicted an easy Spanish victory, particularly given that Cape Verde are ranked 69th in the world, compared with Spain's pedigree as world champions in 2010 and European champions in 1964, 2008 and 2012.