The air of invincibility has been well and truly punctured for European champions Spain. A gut-wrenching goalless draw against Cape Verde in their World Cup opener has left Luis de la Fuente's side reeling, with manager De la Fuente describing his team as 'stung' after the shock result.
The facts are stark: 27 shots, a Ferran Torres crossbar hit and six crucial saves from Vozinha, who stole the show in Cape Verde's goal. Despite dominating possession, Spain's usually clinical finishing was nowhere to be seen – and it's left Borja Iglesias to stress that "we need goals". The striker recounted a lighter moment from the day before, when he was temporarily denied entry to the team hotel, but the mood is anything but jovial now.
Introspection is key for Spain as they prepare for their next test against Saudi Arabia. Martín Zubimendi has acknowledged that one goal would have changed everything, while some observers are pointing to tactical issues – not least Mikel Oyarzabal's lack of touches in the opening half-hour and Pedri's advanced position.
The delayed introduction of 18-year-old winger Lamine Yamal has also sparked debate. Described as 'perfect' by De la Fuente before the game, Yamal's lengthy wait for his appearance (71 minutes) has fuelled speculation about Spain's reliance on the young talent and the management of his return to full fitness.
With a repeat performance against Saudi Arabia not an option, De la Fuente is standing firm behind his team's core philosophy. "Zero doubts," he says – but the pressure to deliver will be immense as they aim to navigate a tricky group stage and avoid an early exit from the tournament.