In the island nation's first-ever appearance at football's greatest stage, Cape Verde delivered one of the biggest surprises of the World Cup so far, holding tournament favourites Spain to a goalless draw.
Cape Verde's hero was veteran custodian Vozinha, who frustrated the European champions throughout the encounter with an incredible performance at forty years old.
Late on, the underdogs even had a chance to secure a historic triumph, but Spanish custodian Unai Simon expertly stopped Diney Borges' header.
Despite having a wealth of elite players, Spain was unable to overcome Cape Verde's well-organised defence, even though they controlled much of the match. Vozinha kept the score tied with several vital saves, especially in the first half.
Ferran Torres, a striker for Barcelona, had Spain's finest opportunity prior to halftime, but his strong shot missed the crossbar. Later, Torres put Vozinha to the test once more, but the goalie was up to the challenge.
As Spain continued to seek an early goal, Vozinha also denied midfielder Pedri and made another crucial stop late in the first half.
Cape Verde, an Atlantic Island nation with a population of around 500,000, is making its World Cup debut and showed little sign of being overwhelmed by the occasion.
Spain, the 2010 World Cup champions, are chasing a second world title. However, coach Luis de la Fuente had warned before the match that Cape Verde could emerge as one of the surprise teams of the tournament.
The African side continued to defend resolutely after the break, and even the introduction of teenage sensation Lamine Yamal failed to help Spain find a breakthrough.
The final whistle confirmed a memorable result for Cape Verde and a disappointing start for one of the tournament’s favourites.
.jpg "Sweden demolish Tunisia 5-1 on Sunday")
