Spain held by tiny Cape Verde at World Cup as Iran make bow

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. Iran battled back twice to secure a 2-2 draw with New Zealand in a tumultuous opening match of their World Cup campaign, with the match frequently overshadowed by political protests and ongoing tensions surrounding Iran's involvement. An Iranian national football team player's United States visa has expired after the team's World Cup opener, casting doubt on his continued participation amid a diplomatic row between Iran and the United States.