In a surprising World Cup opener,Spain stumbled to a 0-0 draw with first-timers Cape Verde in Atlanta. European champs couldn't turn possession into goals. Echoes of past tournament struggles.
Coach Luis de la Fuente had high hopes for his squad, calling it best in the competition. But missing players like Lamine Yamal, recovering from a hamstring injury,was evident. Yamal sat out most of match,coming on second half but failed to ignite offense. Nico Williams also struggled with injuries,entering only in 87th minute.
Despite the comfort of an air-conditioned stadium,Spain's play fell flat. Fans booed during a hydration break,frustrated by lack of action. Spain's first real threat came six minutes before halftime when Marc Cucurella crossed to Ferran Torres, who hit the crossbar . Cape Verde's keeper Vozinha then stopped a Mikel Oyarzabal header.
Spain held possession but couldn't find clear chances. Tested Vozinha few times, but Cape Verde's defense stood strong. The Blue Sharks, ranked 67th globally,debuted with pride,showing grit against a top team.
Second half,Spain kept struggling. Yamal's entry added spark — his first touch set up Mikel Merino, who missed. Yamal also created a chance for Oyarzabal, deflected shot was Spain's best of the half.
In a dramatic close,Cape Verde almost snatched a win when Diney Borges headed toward Spain's goal,but Unai Simon saved . Match ended goalless,leaving Spain much to think about before facing Saudi Arabia Sunday.
Spain's 2010 World Cup win started with a similar misstep,losing to Switzerland. They must fix offensive issues to advance . Cape Verde now looks to build on this strong showing against Uruguay in Miami…
