A football fan reportedly lost over ₦1.3 billion after Spain were held to a surprising 0-0 draw by Cape Verde in their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener. The unexpected result not only shook Group H but also wiped out a massive betting slip that has since gone viral on social media.
Massive Wager on Spain
The punter had staked $1 million on Spain to secure what was expected to be a straightforward victory. According to reports from Polymarket via Yahoo Sports, the wager was anticipated to return $1,085,943.48, yielding a modest profit of around $85,943.48. However, the draw turned the entire stake into a total loss, amounting to approximately ₦1.37 billion.
Spain arrived at the World Cup with heavy expectations. Ranked among the favourites and boasting a squad filled with elite talent such as Rodri, Pedri, and Lamine Yamal, their opening fixture was widely seen as a comfortable start. Cape Verde, making their first-ever World Cup appearance, were expected to struggle against one of the strongest teams in world football.
Cape Verde's Historic Performance
Instead, Cape Verde delivered a disciplined defensive display that frustrated Spain from start to finish. Chances came and went for the European champions as Ferran Torres struck the crossbar, while Lamine Yamal tried to inject creativity after coming off the bench. But Cape Verde held firm, with veteran goalkeeper Vozinha producing a string of crucial saves to keep the score level.
By full time, the scoreboard read 0-0, confirming one of the tournament's biggest surprises. For Cape Verde, it was a historic point; for Spain, a frustrating start; and for some bettors, devastating.
Impact on Betting and Tournament
What made the wager even more striking was the confidence behind it. Spain were widely considered one of the safest picks on the opening day, with many expecting a comfortable win against debutants. Cape Verde's resilience ensured otherwise.
Beyond the financial shock, the result reshaped the early tone of the World Cup. Cape Verde's performance reinforced the growing belief that no team can be underestimated at this level. Their compact defensive structure, combined with Vozinha's standout display in goal, frustrated one of the tournament favourites for 90 minutes.
For Spain, the draw raises immediate questions about efficiency in attack, despite their dominance in possession and chances created.
Record for Cape Verde Goalkeeper
Earlier reports noted that Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha became the oldest goalkeeper to keep a clean sheet on his FIFA World Cup debut at age 40. He recorded seven saves and was named Player of the Match against European champions Spain in Group H.
