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Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente urged calm after his side, the reigning European champions, were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by World Cup debutants Cape Verde. Despite dominating both possession and territory, La Roja failed to find a breakthrough in their Group H opener in Atlanta.

A night of missed chances for La Roja

The 2026 World Cup produced one of its first major surprises on Monday as Cape Verde managed to hold a star-studded Spanish team. Despite the vast difference in experience and pedigree, the African nation stood firm against relentless Spanish pressure, leaving de la Fuente frustrated by his side’s inability to convert their dominance into goals.

After the match, the Spain boss was quick to note that sometimes fortune simply does not favour the stronger team. “This is solved by keeping faith in our philosophy, by continuing to refine our play with more precision, but yes... as Rodri rightly said, these are the kinds of games where you create a lot, but lack the freshness you need,” De la Fuente explained.

De la Fuente praises Cape Verde’s discipline

Although Spain controlled the ball for long periods, they struggled to break through Cape Verde’s compact defensive setup. Even with Marc Cucurella pushing forward effectively from the left flank, the final product was missing. De la Fuente acknowledged the newcomers’ organisation and commitment throughout the ninety minutes.

Reflecting on the tactical challenge, he said: “They are a very well-drilled side. We saw them drop into a low block, which makes it extremely hard to create open spaces. Even so, we managed to get into good positions, though our circulation was lacking to produce more. But when the ball doesn’t want to go in, it simply doesn’t. We had shots, opportunities, and the desire to finish the game quickly, but we know how tough it is to win at this level.”

Managing the return of young stars

The decision to bench Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams drew attention, particularly as Spain’s starting forwards struggled to make an impact. Ferran Torres missed a golden chance, striking the crossbar from close range in what proved a defining moment. De la Fuente eventually brought on the two teenage stars, but neither could tilt the result in Spain’s favour.

Addressing his cautious approach with the youngsters, De la Fuente explained that it was part of a long-term plan to ease them back following recent fitness concerns. “The goal is to give them minutes, help them build confidence and rhythm so that in future matches they can perform better,” he said, hinting both players will take on bigger roles as the tournament progresses.

Turning focus to Saudi Arabia

The draw immediately increases the pressure on Spain heading into their next group game. Although the result was disappointing, the team remains confident that their possession-based style remains the right path. Players echoed their coach’s message, stressing the importance of sharper execution in front of goal.

Goalkeeper Unai Simon summed up the squad’s mood, admitting, “In everyone’s mind, this was a game we should have won.” Spain now turn their attention to their upcoming clash against Saudi Arabia, where anything less than three points could leave the 2010 champions facing an uphill task to qualify for the knockout stages.

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