Spain stumble against Cape Verde as Yamal question looms

Spain held by Cape Verde in World Cup opener

That was not the start anyone expected. Spain's World Cup campaign opened with a draw against debutants Cape Verde at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta (3) (6). Your team, the reigning European champions and tournament favourites, could not break through. Lamine Yamal started on the bench, a decision that will be debated all week (8).

Yamal's moment has arrived

Marca ran a headline that captures the mood: La hora de Lamine Yamal, Yamal's time (8). After a flat opener without him on the pitch, the pressure on the 18-year-old to deliver is enormous. De la Fuente kept him on the bench against Cape Verde, but that may change fast.

Possession without points

Spain had the second-highest possession of the entire first matchday. And still no win (2). Across the World Cup so far, the teams with the most ball possession have not won their matches (2). A tactical trend that cuts close to home.

Muñoz to Liverpool, done

Víctor Muñoz is heading to Liverpool. The Osasuna midfielder moves for £34.5 million, with Liverpool beating Newcastle to his signature (1) (7). The deal is the first signing of the Iraola era at Anfield. Your Spain international will be playing Champions League football next season.

Brazilian referee for Saudi Arabia clash

Raphael Claus of Brazil will take charge of Spain's next group match against Saudi Arabia (4). After the Cape Verde result, that game now carries serious weight.

Fan reactions

The stat doing the rounds: Cape Verde had the second-oldest starting XI of the first matchday, and they shut Spain out. Fans are pointing to the average-age table as proof that experience, not just talent, decided the opener. See the full breakdown on Reddit.