Spain manager sees no reason for doubt after Cape Verde stalemate

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente brushed off concerns following a frustrating 0-0 draw against World Cup debutants Cape Verde, emphasizing his team's strong track record. "A team that is on a more than 30-match unbeaten run can’t have any doubts," he stated, referencing Spain's consistent performance over more than three years.

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A team that is on a more than 30-match unbeaten run can’t have any doubts.

De la Fuente acknowledged that Spain dominated possession but struggled to convert pressure into goals against a well-organized Cape Verde side that defended deeply. "We created plenty of chances, but lacked the freshness you need in these games," he said, noting the difficulty in breaking down a compact defense. He added, "We lacked movement and freshness, but when the ball just won’t go in, it won’t go in."

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We created plenty of chances, but lacked the freshness you need in these games.

The manager also provided an update on the fitness of Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, who were introduced late in the second half. "The aim is to gradually bring them into the team and give them playing time," De la Fuente explained. He expressed confidence that both players, returning from hamstring injuries, would improve in subsequent matches.

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They’re very well organised; they sat deep as a unit, and it was very difficult to create space.