Spain 0‑0 Cabo Verde: Two Super Eagles World Cup milestones endure after historic draw

Two Super Eagles records remain unshaken as Cabo Verde made a memorable FIFA World Cup debut after holding Spain to a goalless draw in their opening Group H match on Monday, at Atlanta Stadium in Georgia, Afrik-Foot reports.

The World Cup newcomers frustrated the 2010 champions for 90 minutes despite facing relentless pressure. Spain dominated possession with 74 percent, attempted 23 shots, won 11 corners and completed more than 700 passes, yet failed to find a breakthrough.

Much of the credit went to veteran goalkeeper Vozinha. The 40‑year‑old produced eight saves, including a remarkable double stop before halftime, as Bubista’s side secured a historic point in their first‑ever World Cup appearance.

Vozinha seen during FIFA World Cup, WM, Weltmeisterschaft, Fussball 2026 game between national teams of Spain and Cabo Verde Grzegorz Wajda/Ball Raw Images Atlanta Monterrey Stadium USA Copyright: xGrzegorzxWajdax grzegorzwajda_spain_caboverde_2526_2-33

While the result will be celebrated across Cabo Verde, it also ensured that two significant Super Eagles World Cup records remain intact.

World Cup: Super Eagles the only African team to beat Spain

Spain’s latest stumble against African opposition extended a trend that has followed La Roja for decades at the World Cup.

Despite controlling proceedings against Cabo Verde, the European champions could not avoid another disappointing result against a CAF representative. Spain have now failed to win any of their last three World Cup matches against African teams, following a 2‑2 draw with Morocco in 2018 and a 0‑0 draw against the same opponents in 2022 before losing on penalties.

However, penalties do not count as a defeat in official FIFA match records. That means Nigeria’s famous 3‑2 victory over Spain at the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France remains the only time an African nation has beaten Spain in regulation time at the tournament.

Photo by IMAGO

Spain twice led through Fernando Hierro and Raúl, but the Super Eagles responded through Mutiu Adepoju and an own goal by goalkeeper Andoni Zubizarreta. With 12 minutes remaining, Sunday Oliseh unleashed a spectacular long‑range