African teams continued to make headlines at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday as debutants Cabo Verde held European champions Spain to a shock draw, while Egypt came within minutes of a famous victory over Belgium.
The biggest surprise came in Atlanta, where Cabo Verde marked its first-ever World Cup match with a remarkable 0-0 draw against Spain.
The tiny island nation, making its tournament debut, frustrated one of the competition's favorites with a disciplined defensive display led by veteran goalkeeper Vozinha.
Spain dominated possession and created numerous chances, but the 40-year-old goalkeeper produced a series of crucial saves to secure the Blue Sharks's first-ever World Cup point.
The result was celebrated like a victory by players and supporters.
Cabo Verde coach Pedro Leitão Brito described the draw as a proud moment for the country, while midfielder Laros Duarte said progression to the knockout stage was now a realistic target.
In Seattle, Egypt also impressed despite being denied what would have been their first-ever World Cup finals victory.
The Pharaohs took the lead in the 19th minute when Emam Ashour scored his first international goal after being set up by captain Mohamed Salah, who was playing on his 34th birthday.
Egypt defended well and looked set for all three points before Belgium equalised through an own goal by defender Mohamed Hany in the second half.
Belgium coach Rudi Garcia credited substitute Romelu Lukaku for changing the game after the striker's introduction helped create the equaliser.
Although the match ended 1-1, Egypt earned praise for a performance that exposed weaknesses in the Belgian side and showed they can compete with the world's top teams.
The results represent a strong start for African nations at the expanded 48-team tournament and have reinforced the belief that traditional football powers can no longer take emerging nations for granted.
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