World Cup debutants Cape Verde hold Spain in huge shock

World Cup debutants Cape Verde shocked reigning European champions Spain in Atlanta on Monday, as the minnows held one of the favorites to win the 2026 men's World Cup to a 0-0 draw. Everyone is talking about the Blue Sharks now. The final whistle sparked wild celebrations from everyone connected with Cape Verde, as the nation of 10 volcanic islands off the coast off Africa, with a population of just 491,000, made a name for themselves with the best result in their history. How big of a shock did Cape Verde pull off? This scoreline was one of the biggest shocks in recent World Cup history as Cape Verde, ranked number 67th in the world, made the most of their debut in the spotlight. Tiny Cape Verde are now making headlines around the world, as previously they competed on the international stage as part of Portugal before they gained their independence in 1975. Cape Verde's defense, led by veteran 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha, held firm and got the luck they needed with Spain having an off day in attack. Marc Cucurella and Mikel Oyarzabal went close late on as Spain dominated play but they couldn't find a way through as Luis de la Fuente brought Lamine Yamal off the bench late on but it was too little too late. Spain went closest in the first half after Cucurella nodded down for Ferran Torres but he hit the crossbar from close range and Vozinha made a superb stop to deny Oyarzabal on the rebound. Cape Verde had a few chances from set pieces and on the counter but they worked so hard to close down gaps for Spain to operate in and were so well-organized defensively, as head coach Bubista masterminded one of the great World Cup surprises.