FIFA World Cup 2026: Cape Verde controlled Spain in a different way, says Bubista

Unsurprisingly, Cape Verde were in control for most of their World Cup debut against Spain on Monday, but after holding out a 0-0 draw, manager Bubista said there were other ways to control a match than just dominating possession.

European champions Spain came in as heavy favorites to beat Bubista’s side, and although they kept Cape Verde deep in their own half for long periods, they never found a way out.

“Of course we can say that Spain had possession almost all the time, but controlling the match is not just possession,” Bubista told reporters.

«We did it in a different way. Of course we would have liked to have more attacking transitions, but the Spanish team is quite difficult, so we are happy with that.»

READ | Cape Verde holds Spain to goalless draw on debut – ESP vs CPV player ratings

«Teams nowadays excel in their defensive organization and in a World Cup, statistically teams win games with a transition ball or a ball that doesn’t move. And so we have to prepare in this way.»

The expanded World Cup, now with 48 teams, has given countries like Cape Verde the chance to compete on the biggest stage, and they have certainly made the most of that opportunity.

“Today this is a more open world and smaller teams and smaller national teams have more right to play against higher level teams,” Bubista said.

“I think football means organization, courage and determination, and the smaller teams form the basis of what they can do best against bigger teams.”

Cape Verde has achieved one of its goals: to bring attention to its country, but Bubista and his side are not done yet.

“We always said we wanted everyone to see our country and our team,” the coach said.

“We have shown organization and courage, and this is a testament to what our country stands for: resilience and trying to overcome hardship.

«Before I came here, I said our goal was to compete at the highest level. We would face difficulties, we knew that for sure. But we are going to do our utmost to overcome obstacles.»

Cape Verdean goalkeeper Vozinha made a series of saves to keep Spain out, but Bubista preferred to praise the team performance.

“He was the best player on the pitch, he deserves congratulations too,” he said.

«But I think our team was very good defensively. Of course he is also there to help our team. Of course I am happy that he was chosen as the best player of the match. But I think our team did a spectacular job.»

Cape Verde will take on Uruguay in their next Group H match in Miami on Sunday.

Published on June 16, 2026