Spain vs Cape Verde Player Ratings: La Roja Held to Shock 0-0 World Cup Draw Despite Lamine Yamal Return
Spain's 2026 World Cup campaign suffered an unexpected setback as Cape Verde secured a remarkable 0-0 draw against the reigning European champions in Atalanta on Monday.
Spain were held 0-0 by Cape Verde as Ferran Torres and Gavi struggled despite Lamine Yamal's late introduction.
Few gave the tournament debutants any chance of taking points from Spain, but veteran goalkeeper Vozinha emerged as the hero of the occasion. The 40-year-old delivered a string of crucial saves to frustrate La Roja and preserve a memorable clean sheet.
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Although Spain dominated possession, their attacking display fell short of expectations against a side ranked 64th in the world. Pedri struggled to influence the match at his usual level, while the forward line failed to capitalize on the opportunities that did arrive.
Ferran Torres endured a particularly frustrating evening. The attacker squandered a golden chance in the first half when he struck the crossbar from close range before later directing another effort weakly at Vozinha. Mikel Oyarzabal also failed to convince in the central striking role as Spain's attacking issues became increasingly apparent.
With time running out, head coach Luis de la Fuente introduced Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal for the final 20 minutes in an attempt to spark a breakthrough. Yamal immediately increased Spain's attacking threat, but Cape Verde's disciplined defence remained resilient and held firm until the final whistle.
Goalkeeper & Defence
Unai Simon (6/10)
The goalkeeper had little to do throughout the match, making just one save while distributing the ball effectively.
Marcos Llorente (6/10)
Provided energy down the right side but was fortunate not to receive a booking after bringing down Jovane Cabral.
Pau Cubarsi (6/10)
The young defender enjoyed a relatively comfortable evening as Cape Verde offered limited danger in attack.
Aymeric Laporte (6/10)
Came closest to scoring among the defenders with a strong header that forced a fingertip save from Vozinha before halftime. Defensively, he remained composed and reliable.
Marc Cucurella (7/10)
Spain's most threatening attacking outlet. The left-back created two excellent opportunities for Ferran Torres that should have resulted in goals.
Midfield
Rodri (7/10)
Controlled proceedings in midfield and produced the pass that created Spain's best first-half chance, finding Cucurella behind the defence.
Fabian Ruiz (6/10)
Attempted to drive forward and create openings but could not find the breakthrough. He still appeared to be regaining rhythm after injury.
Attack
Ferran Torres (3/10)
A disappointing display highlighted by a glaring miss from six yards out. He also failed to beat Vozinha with another promising opportunity and remained on the pitch for 80 minutes.
Pedri (5/10)
Worked tirelessly but failed to dominate the contest as expected. It was an underwhelming performance by his usual standards.
Gavi (3/10)
His surprise inclusion in the starting lineup did not pay off. He offered little creativity and was withdrawn early.
Mikel Oyarzabal (4/10)
Saw a looping header tipped over by Vozinha but otherwise struggled to make an impact as Spain again lacked a convincing No.9 presence.
Substitutes & Manager
Lamine Yamal (6/10)
Introduced with 19 minutes remaining, he looked dangerous and added urgency to Spain's attack but could not alter the outcome.
Mikel Merino (6/10)
Nearly scored the winner after coming off the bench, only to see his effort brilliantly blocked by Pico Lopes.
Dani Olmo (6/10)
Entered for Ferran Torres late in the game and immediately helped create a chance for Merino.
Nico Williams (x/10)
Returned from injury late in the match but was unable to influence events.
Luis de la Fuente (3/10)
Spain's coach is likely to face criticism following the performance. His side lacked intensity throughout the match, and the decision to start Gavi came under scrutiny. The result also highlighted the importance of having a fully fit Lamine Yamal available moving forward.
