Spain midfielder Rodri was unimpressed with Cape Verde’s tactics (Picture: La 1) Rodri poured scorn on Cape Verde’s tactical approach after Spain were held to a 0-0 draw in their World Cup opener, claiming the opposition ‘sat back’ and had no interest in ‘getting past the midfield’. Cape Verde entered the Group H contest as massive underdogs, with 65 places separating the two teams in the FIFA rankings ahead of kick-off. But the African qualifiers produced an exceptional defensive display to come away from the clash – the nation’s first-ever appearance at a World Cup finals – with a thoroughly deserved point. Ferran Torres struck against the crossbar with Spain’s biggest opportunity, while veteran goalkeeper Vozinha, 40, produced a string of fine saves to ensure the scoreline remained goalless at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz. ‘It wasn’t meant to be. There’s little to complain about,’ the Spain and Manchester City midfielder told La 1 shortly after the final whistle. ‘We knew it was a game that required patience, they sat back. We created chances, but couldn’t finish. ‘The positive thing is that they barely created anything against us. ‘We need to improve our finishing.’ On Cape Verde’s tactics, Rodri said: ‘That’s how they play. They don’t get past midfield. ‘It’s a matter of improving our finishing.’ Vozinha produced an exceptional goalkeeping display to keep out Spain’s superstars (Picture: Getty) More to follow.