Josimar Dias

Washed-up Spain made Cape Verde goalkeeper millionaire

The opening round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage delivered an immediate reality check for reigning European champions Spain, whose toothless performance led to a shocking 0-0 stalemate…

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Toothless giants frustrated by Vozinha’s heroics

Despite entering the tournament as heavy favorites, Spain looked entirely devoid of a creative spark, reinforcing fears that the squad is past its prime.

According to a report covering the tactical gridlock by the Romanian sports outlet Sport.ro, translated as “The madness made him a millionaire! A bettor predicted the surprise in Spain – Cape Verde and got rich”, the European champions controlled a staggering 74% of possession and registered 27 attempts on goal. Yet, these numbers only masked a sluggish, predictable offense that simply lacked the teeth to break down a disciplined low block.

When Spain did manage to find a rare opening, they ran into a wall named Vozinha. The veteran goalkeeper, whose full name is Josimar José Évora Dias, put on a masterclass in his 89th international appearance.

Vozinha recorded seven crucial saves, frustrating a pedestrian Spanish frontline and securing a historic point for the African nation in their first-ever World Cup match.

Read also: World Cup star could miss rest of tournament after US Visa expires

Audacious bettor capitalizes on Spanish decline

While Spanish supporters lamented a performance that looked distinctly over the hill, one anonymous gambler recognized the signs of a fading giant and turned it into a life-changing fortune.

Defying conventional wisdom and pre-match odds, the bettor placed a staggering $427,952 wager on Spain failing to defeat the underdogs. The resulting 0-0 draw triggered a massive $4.7 million payout, proving that betting against this lackluster Spanish side is no longer just an anomaly.

Group H wide open as heavyweights falter

The goalless draw leaves Group H in complete disarray, shattering any assumptions that Spain would cruise into the knockout rounds. With Uruguay and Saudi Arabia playing out a 1-1 draw in the group’s concurrent fixture, all four teams sit level on one point apiece.

Spain must now undergo a quick soul-searching process before they face Saudi Arabia on June 27, while a confident Cape Verde prepares to test Uruguay on June 22.

Read also: Como to secure Álvaro Morata on permanent deal despite quiet debut season

If the European champions cannot rediscover their offensive bite, this tournament could mark a remarkably swift and embarrassing exit for a giant that looks increasingly washed up.

Read also: World Cup manager set to quit role immediately after tournament amid Premier League interest

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