Spain draws with Cape Verde, prepares for Saudi Arabia clash

The Guardian Sport2 min read • Latest: Jun 21, 2026, 4:00 AM

Last updated Jun 21, 2026

Spain draws with Cape Verde, prepares for Saudi Arabia clash
Summary

Spain, frustrated by a 0-0 draw against Cape Verde in their World Cup opener, is focused on their next match against Saudi Arabia. Head coach Luis de la Fuente allowed the players a day off to regroup mentally, with various team members spotted enjoying their time in Tennessee. Borja Iglesias humorously recounted a security mix-up upon his return to the hotel after curfew. As Spain prepares for their second game, avoiding another disappointing result is critical for their tournament prospects.

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By the Numbers
  • Spain and Cape Verde ended their World Cup match in a 0-0 draw.
  • Luis de la Fuente gave the team a day off to recover from the draw.
  • Players were seen out in Tennessee, clearing their heads before the next match.
  • Borja Iglesias experienced a humorous incident with hotel security.
  • Spain's next match is crucial to avoid elimination from the tournament.
Latest Updates
  • 4:00 AMThe Guardian Sport‘Stung’ Spain have digested shock start but know repeat is not an option
What they're saying
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European champions were frustrated by Cape Verde and know there is little margin for error against Saudi Arabia Cape Verde are not the only ones to have kept Spain out at this World Cup. Turns out it was even harder to get past security on the gate of the team hotel in downtown Chattanooga. Two days after the 0-0 draw in their opener, Luis de la Fuente gave his players the day off, a chance to clear their heads and leave the disappointment behind. Lamine Yamal went to Nashville, Dani Olmo headed for Hamilton Place mall and Rodri strolled the Tennessee river with his partner. When Borja Iglesias got back before the 9pm curfew, they didn’t recognise him and wouldn’t let him in. “It was funny,” Iglesias said, standing at the side of the pitch at Kennesaw State University 30 miles north-west of Atlanta on Saturday, moments before the selección’s final session in preparation for their second game. “It happens to me in Spain, so how could it not happen here? I didn’t have the accreditation with me so I have to wait for someone to come and get me. Lamine laughed at me: ‘I love it, they didn’t let you in.’ The good thing is I told a couple of them and they said it had happened to them before too.” Continue reading...

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