Cape Verde’s Strong Performance Against Spain Shows Football No Longer Has “Minnows” — Iroha

Former Nigerian defender Ben Iroha praised Cape Verde’s performance against Spain at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying it shows there are no longer any minnows in world football, Completesports.com reports.

Iroha spoke exclusively to Completesports.com from his Texas, United States, base on Tuesday night.

The African nation held Spain to a surprising 0‑0 draw in their Group H opening match, while Saudi Arabia also forced a 1‑1 draw against Uruguay in the group’s other fixture.

Cape Verde Stun Spain With Resolute Display

Iroha, who was part of Nigeria’s 1994 FIFA World Cup squad in the United States, noted that, on paper, few would have given Cape Verde any chance against the European football powerhouse Spain.

Also Read: World Cup 2026: Cape Verde Goalkeeper Gains Over One Million Instagram Followers After Heroics Against Spain

“That was a superb performance by Cape Verde. No one gave them a chance before the World Cup 2026, especially against Spain, one of Europe’s football heavyweights,” Iroha said.

“Holding Spain to a draw confirms that there are no minnows in global football any more. Cape Verde have proved that they can be one of the teams to watch in the tournament, and they have raised Africa’s pride and hopes at the competition.”

World Cup 2026 Showcasing Football’s Growing Competitiveness

Cape Verde goalkeeper Josimar José Évora Dias, known as “Vozinha,” was named Man of the Match after making eight outstanding saves to deny the Spanish attack.
His heroic display earned Cape Verde a valuable point against one of the tournament favourites.

Africa’s Representatives Making Their Mark

Cape Verde is one of Africa’s ten representatives at the expanded FIFA World Cup 2026 finals hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada.
The other African nations competing are Morocco, Ivory Coast, Egypt, Ghana, Tunisia, DR Congo, Senegal, South Africa and Algeria.

Sab Osuji

I’m Sab Osuji, a sports journalist with over 35 years working experience. I’ve worked in several media houses, print in particular, and have covered many international engagements, such as CAF Champions League, CAF Confederation Cup, All Africa Games, FIFA U20 World Cup, AFCON and World Cup qualifying games amongst other major tournaments.