Maha Christopher
World Cup debutants Cape Verde produced a stunning result on Monday, holding European champions Spain to a 0-0 draw in their Group H encounter.
According to Reuters, Cape Verde frustrated one of the tournament favourites with a disciplined defensive display and an inspired performance from veteran goalkeeper Vozinha, who made a series of crucial saves to preserve a historic point.
Spain dominated possession throughout the match and created the better chances but failed to find a way past the Cape Verde defence.
Their best opportunity came late in the first half when Ferran Torres rattled the crossbar from close range. Moments later, Vozinha reacted sharply to push Mikel Oyarzabal’s header over the bar from the rebound.
The Cape Verde goalkeeper continued his heroics after the break, denying Torres and Aymeric Laporte as Spain increased the pressure in search of a breakthrough.
Coach Luis de la Fuente introduced teenage sensation Lamine Yamal in the second half, but the move failed to unlock Cape Verde’s stubborn defence.
Cape Verde, making their first appearance at a FIFA World Cup, held firm and even threatened to spring an upset victory with a number of late attacking moves.
The draw hands the African nation a memorable point in its World Cup debut and leaves Spain with work to do in Group H as the competition progresses.
The group’s other fixture between Uruguay and Saudi Arabia was scheduled to take place later on Monday in Miami.
