Cape Verde achieved a historic 0-0 draw against favorites Spain in their first-ever World Cup match. Despite Spain's dominance in shots, Cape Verde's defense and late chances secured a point, marking a monumental achievement for the small island nation.
Spain, European champions and World Cup favorites, were held to a goalless draw by debutants Cape Verde in their opening match in Atlanta. Despite a strong squad, Spain's attack lacked penetration, with key players Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams returning from injury. Cape Verde's defense was resolute, and they nearly secured a famous victory in the final minute.
Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, full name Josimar Jose Evora Dias, became the second-oldest debutant in men's FIFA World Cup history at 40 years old. He played against Spain, marking a dream realized after a nearly two-decade professional career spanning multiple countries.
Tunisia has dismissed head coach Sabri Lamouchi following a 5-1 defeat to Sweden in their opening World Cup game. Mondher Kebaier is expected to take over on an interim basis for the remaining qualifiers.
In an astonishing turn of events, Cabo Verde held Spain to a draw in Atlanta, securing a point that felt like a victory for the island nation. Spain, despite numerous chances and a star-studded lineup, failed to break down Cabo Verde's resolute defense, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the 48-team World Cup.
Cabo Verde holds Spain to a 0-0 draw at halftime in Atlanta. Goalkeeper Vozinha made several key saves to deny Spain, while Cabo Verde showed attacking intent. This is Cabo Verde's first-ever World Cup game.
Spain's national football team, La Roja, has announced its lineup featuring top players, while Cabo Verde's Blue Sharks will be led by captain Ryan Mendes. Meanwhile, Tunisia has dismissed head coach Sabri Lamouchi following a significant World Cup loss to Sweden.
In a stunning upset, Cabo Verde held Spain to a goalless draw in their World Cup Group H match in Atlanta. Goalkeeper Vozinha delivered a heroic performance, making numerous saves to deny Spain's star-studded attack. The result raises questions about the 48-team World Cup format and could impact Spain's chances of winning the group.
Lewis Hamilton won the Spanish Grand Prix with a bold three-stop strategy, leveraging tire wear and rivals' issues. Ferrari's upgrades and Hamilton's resurgence were key, while Mercedes and Ferrari faced reliability problems and strategic challenges.
Spain, strong favorites, take on World Cup debutants Cabo Verde. Coach Luis de la Fuente respects the African side's discipline and potential for surprise. Teenage star Lamine Yamal's fitness is a major focus, with expectations high for his tournament debut.
Spain and Cape Verde are locked at 0-0 in their World Cup opener in Atlanta. Despite Spain's dominance in possession, they've struggled to create clear chances against Cape Verde's organized defense, with veteran goalkeeper Vozinha making key saves.
Spain and Cape Verde are locked at 0-0 in their World Cup opener in Atlanta. Despite Spain's dominance in possession, Cape Verde's organized defense and the performance of goalkeeper Vozinha have kept the score level. Teenage star Lamine Yamal is on the bench for Spain.
Spain dominates possession against Cape Verde in their World Cup opener in Atlanta but struggles to create clear chances. Cape Verde defends resolutely, with goalkeeper Vozinha largely untroubled. Teenage star Lamine Yamal is a substitute for Spain.
Spain and Cape Verde are facing off in their World Cup opener in Atlanta. Teenage star Lamine Yamal is a substitute for Spain, while Cape Verde's starting lineup includes Dublin-born Roberto Lopes.
Spain dominates possession against Cape Verde in their World Cup opener in Atlanta, but struggles to create clear chances. Cape Verde maintains a defensive shape, with goalkeeper Vozinha largely untested. Lamine Yamal is a substitute for Spain, while Roberto Lopes starts for Cape Verde.
Marc Cucurella has officially joined Real Madrid for up to £51.8m, hours before Spain's World Cup game. This raises questions about his former Chelsea teammate Enzo Fernandez potentially following, with Madrid reportedly willing to spend significantly on the midfielder.
Spanish officials are downplaying concerns that investors could seize Royal Spanish Football Federation assets during World Cup matches in the US. Blasket Renewable Investments LLC issued subpoenas to entities involved in Spain's participation, seeking documents related to a 2013 dispute over renewable energy subsidies.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez faces a critical week as his wife, Begoña Gómez, and former PM José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero are investigated for alleged influence peddling and corruption. Gómez faces charges including embezzlement and misappropriation of funds, while Zapatero is probed over a state airline bailout and potential tax fraud.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is navigating a critical week as his wife, Begoña Gómez, faces charges of embezzlement and influence peddling, while former PM José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero is investigated for alleged corruption related to an airline bailout. Sánchez's brother is also on trial, and other former aides face kickback accusations.
The World Cup group stage features four matches on Monday: Spain vs. Cape Verde, Belgium vs. Egypt, Saudi Arabia vs. Uruguay, and Iran vs. New Zealand. Beyond the games, Uruguay's travel delays, divisions in LA's Iranian American community, and Haiti's inspiring return are drawing attention.
Spain's teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, recovering from a hamstring injury, will begin the FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Cabo Verde on the bench. Coach Luis de la Fuente confirmed Yamal is fit but will be managed carefully. Cabo Verde makes its historic World Cup debut.
Real Madrid has announced the signing of Spanish left-back Marc Cucurella from Chelsea on a six-year deal until June 30, 2032. The transfer package is worth up to €60m (£52m), with an initial €55m plus €5m in add-ons. Cucurella's move comes after he criticized Chelsea's hierarchy and amid Real Madrid's squad revamp.
Spanish teenager Rafael Jodar, ranked world No. 23, is set to make his Wimbledon debut after a remarkable year of firsts, including a French Open quarter-final appearance. Despite limited grass-court experience, his aggressive baseline game and strong return statistics suggest potential success.
New Zealand and Iran coaches emphasize football focus ahead of their World Cup match, downplaying political tensions. Meanwhile, Cape Verde, making its World Cup debut, sees facing Spain as a dream come true, aiming to make an impact despite being underdogs.
