Lamine Fails to Inspire as Spain Suffers Shock Draw Against Cape Verde
Cape Verde has pulled off a major upset at the 2026 World Cup, holding Spain to a 0-0 draw in Atalanta on Monday. The tournament debutants, ranked 64th in the world, defied expectations against the reigning European champions, thanks in large part to the impressive performance of 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha.
Spain, however, failed to capitalize on their chances, with forwards Ferran Torres and Mikel Oyarzabal wasting opportunities. Torres missed a clear scoring chance in the first half, while Oyarzabal struggled to convince as Spain's striker. Pedri, meanwhile, was not at his best, and the team's overall performance was lackluster.
In an attempt to turn the game around, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente brought on Lamine Yamal for the final 20 minutes, but the team remained unable to break down Cape Verde's solid defense. Yamal's introduction did bring some energy to the team, but it was not enough to secure a win.
Spain's players had mixed performances, with some, like left-back Cucurella, creating scoring chances, while others, like Gavi, failed to justify their inclusion in the starting lineup. The team's lack of a proper No.9 striker was also evident, with Oyarzabal and others struggling to make an impact.
De la Fuente's decision-making has come under scrutiny, particularly his choice to start Gavi, and the coach will face criticism for the team's poor performance. With injuries affecting his selections, De la Fuente will hope that Yamal is fit to start in Spain's next game against Saudi Arabia, as the team's prospects look bleak without him.
Spain, however, failed to capitalize on their chances, with forwards Ferran Torres and Mikel Oyarzabal wasting opportunities. Torres missed a clear scoring chance in the first half, while Oyarzabal struggled to convince as Spain's striker. Pedri, meanwhile, was not at his best, and the team's overall performance was lackluster.
In an attempt to turn the game around, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente brought on Lamine Yamal for the final 20 minutes, but the team remained unable to break down Cape Verde's solid defense. Yamal's introduction did bring some energy to the team, but it was not enough to secure a win.
Spain's players had mixed performances, with some, like left-back Cucurella, creating scoring chances, while others, like Gavi, failed to justify their inclusion in the starting lineup. The team's lack of a proper No.9 striker was also evident, with Oyarzabal and others struggling to make an impact.
De la Fuente's decision-making has come under scrutiny, particularly his choice to start Gavi, and the coach will face criticism for the team's poor performance. With injuries affecting his selections, De la Fuente will hope that Yamal is fit to start in Spain's next game against Saudi Arabia, as the team's prospects look bleak without him.
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