World Cup 2026: Luis de la Fuente hails Cape Verde’s organisation after shock stalemate in opener

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has praised Cape Verde for their disciplined display after the 2010 champions were held to a goalless draw in their opening Group H fixture at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday.

The result marked a frustrating start for Spain, who entered the tournament among the favourites but found themselves repeatedly frustrated by a compact and organised Cape Verde side making their World Cup debut.

Speaking after the match, de la Fuente acknowledged the resilience of their opponents.

“Cape Verde were a very well-organised side,” he said, highlighting the tactical discipline that helped the debutants secure a historic point against one of football’s traditional powerhouses.

The draw leaves Group H finely balanced after the opening round of fixtures. Spain will now turn their attention to their second group match against Saudi Arabia, also set to take place in Atlanta on Sunday at 17:00 BST.

Cape Verde, buoyed by their impressive start on the world stage, face a demanding follow-up test against Uruguay later the same day in Miami, with kick-off scheduled for 23:00 BST.