Top News

KUPANG – Spain’s failure to secure victory against Cape Verde in their opening Group H match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has left fans of La Roja in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, deeply disappointed.

Ferdi Seran, a passionate supporter of Spain, expressed his belief that the fault lay with coach Luis de la Fuente, accusing him of underestimating the opponent.

According to Ferdi, key players such as Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, and Nico Williams were surprisingly benched and did not start the first half. He felt that Spain should have aimed for a full three points from the opening fixture, especially with tougher matches ahead.

“A poor start. I’m somewhat disappointed with the coach. Why were Yamal, Olmo, and Williams sidelined? They were only brought on late in the game, as if the coach underestimated the opponent. Still, I remain optimistic because all teams in the group share the same points after drawing their matches,” said Ferdi, a resident of Matani, Penfui Timur, Kupang Regency.

Ferdi further argued that Spain’s inability to claim victory in the 0–0 draw against debutants Cape Verde stemmed from poor finishing in front of goal.

He noted that Spain’s players appeared less fit and struggled to cope with Cape Verde’s physically dominant style of play.

The Matador squad seemed far from their best rhythm, with their passing often intercepted and their build-up play failing to flow smoothly.

Adding to Spain’s frustration was the exceptional performance of Cape Verde’s goalkeeper, Vozinha, who made eight crucial saves to deny Spain’s forwards throughout the match.

“Spain must regroup immediately because their next match against Saudi Arabia will be decisive. It’s a do-or-die fixture if they want to keep their campaign alive,” Ferdi Seran added.

According to FIFA’s match report, World Cup debutants Cape Verde delivered a remarkable display to secure a goalless draw against one of world football’s giants, Spain.

The Group H opening match between Spain and Cape Verde took place on Monday, 15 June 2026, at 23:00 local time at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, United States.

The island nation, with a population just above 500,000, managed to hold their ground against Luis de la Fuente’s star-studded squad, earning a result that resonated across the football world.

Cape Verde played with impressive organization from defence to attack. Although Spain, as expected, dominated possession, they were left frustrated for much of the game by their opponents' spirited and disciplined display.

La Roja’s best chance in the first half came when Ferran Torres struck the crossbar following a pass from Marc Cucurella.

The rebound fell to Mikel Oyarzabal, who headed it toward goal, only for Vozinha to make a stunning save.

The 40-year-old goalkeeper continued his heroics, producing another spectacular stop to deny Aymeric Laporte’s header just before halftime.

The Blue Sharks also managed a few forays into Spain’s final third, allowing their defence brief moments of respite.

Early in the second half, Fabián Ruiz attempted a curling shot from outside the box that sailed over the bar. Despite Spain’s relentless attacking waves, Cape Verde’s disciplined defence held firm.

In the 71st minute, De la Fuente introduced Lamine Yamal from the bench. The teenage sensation immediately injected energy and unpredictability into Spain’s attack.

Spain’s offensive play became livelier, but Cape Verde managed to contain Yamal’s influence effectively, leaving Spain still searching for a breakthrough.

Oyarzabal had another opportunity late in the match, but his shot went off target. Cape Verde ultimately held on to secure a historic point against the 2010 World Cup champions.