European champions Spain were surprisingly held to a 0-0 draw by debutants Cape Verde in their World Cup opener on Monday, June 15. Meanwhile, Iran prepared for their anticipated tournament entrance amidst a turbulent build-up.

• Spain, heavily favored, dominated possession with 74 percent but could not score against the underdogs.
• Cape Verde, a nation of just 525,000 people, celebrated securing an improbable point in their first-ever World Cup match.
• Iran's preparations were marked by visa issues with co-hosts the United States, and protests are planned outside their opening game against New Zealand.