Cape Verde fans celebrate shock point against Spain on World Cup debut

Cape Verde fans in Lisbon celebrated after their team secured a surprise 0-0 draw against Spain in their World Cup debut.

Few gave Cape Verde a chance against the 2010 world champions before kick-off, with the match widely viewed as one of the biggest mismatches of the tournament. However, the African nation produced a disciplined defensive display to deny Spain and earn a point that supporters described as historic.

Spain dominated possession and created several opportunities, but Cape Verde remained organised throughout the match to secure a result that could prove important in Group H, which also includes Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.

Speaking after the match, one supporter praised the team's effort against one of the tournament's strongest sides.

"It was a very defensive game on our part. We knew the difficulty we would face against Spain, but with the team's unity, we did very well, getting a result that nobody expected. For us, that was a victory and because of that we can only thank our players for what they did on the pitch, and that's it. Now we are here celebrating because of them. Thank you very much to my players. We're in this together."

For many supporters, the result was also a proud moment for African football, with Cape Verde becoming one of the continent's representatives on the world stage.

"This far on its own merit, a country from the African continent, all of Africa, is representing all of Africa in this World Cup. I am very proud of Cape Verde. Congratulations, Cape Verde! This is the end."

The draw has also boosted belief among fans that Cape Verde can compete in the group and challenge for a place in the knockout rounds.

"It was a good debut for us. We played a good game, we showed that just one percent was what we needed, and the players put on a good game. I think we have the quality and capability to go further. We'll see how it goes."