'They don’t get past midfield' - Rodri takes aim at Cape Verde tactics

Spain started their 2026 World Cup campaign in disappointing fashion as they were held to a 0-0 draw by tournament debutants Cape Verde. Despite boasting a squad of global superstars, the European champions could not find a way past the African side's resilient defensive block.

Spain captain Rodri did not hold back in his assessment, saying: "It wasn’t meant to be. There’s little to complain about. We knew it was a game that required patience. They sat back and they dropped back very quickly. We couldn’t put it in. We created chances but couldn’t finish.

The positive thing is that they barely created anything against us. We need to improve our finishing." He added: "That’s how they play. They don’t get past midfield. It’s a matter of improving our finishing." Cape Verde celebrated like winners after the stalemate, led by 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha, who produced several vital saves and earned his 90th cap.

Spain

spain, cape verde, rodri, 2026 world, vozinha, goalkeeper, 0-0 draw, defensive block, finishing, debutants