Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal makes unwanted FIFA World Cup record against Cape Verde

Spain had a tough first half in their World Cup opener against Cape Verde.

The glittering Spanish attack had a first half to forget against Cape Verde in a surprisingly competitive Group H clash on June 15 at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The 2010 champions were held to a goalless first half by the tiny World Cup debutants, with forward Mikel Oyarzabal making an unwanted record in the process.

The Real Sociedad attacker, who started up front for Spain, registered a total of zero touches in the opening half hour. This was the first time a player had gone without touching the ball in the first 30 minutes of a World Cup match since 1966.

With 25 goals to his name, Oyarzabal is Spain’s ninth-highest all-time top scorer. However, the Basque was completely neutralised by the opposition defenders, who essentially marked him out of the game. Oyarzabal’s partners in attack – Ferran Torres and Gavi – were also shut out by the Cape Verdean defence. 

With 25 goals to his name, Oyarzabal is Spain’s ninth-highest scorer of all time. However, the much-changed forward line for La Roja will have disappointed the manager, failing to break down their underdog opposition in what was expected to be a comfortable match for the former World Cup winners.

Also Read: Why is Lamine Yamal starting benched for Spain vs Cape Verde in FIFA World Cup 2026?

Super Vozinha to the rescue

One of the main reasons that the Spanish forwards did not get much luck in front of the Cape Verdean goal was the African side’s 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha. The veteran custodian, who plays in Portugal’s second-division club Chaves, had a night to remember, making five big saves by the hour mark to keep his side in the contest.

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