Historic Day of Draws at FIFA World Cup After 68-Year Wait

For the first time since 1958, four World Cup matches ended in draws on the same day. Cape Verde held Spain to a goalless draw, Egypt and Belgium ended 1-1, as did Uruguay versus Saudi Arabia. Iran and New Zealand played out a 2-2 draw, continuing the winless streak for New Zealand.

In a historic first since June 15, 1958, the FIFA World Cup witnessed four draws on a single day, reviving memories from 68 years ago. The day began with a spectacular match where tournament newcomers Cape Verde held a formidable Spain, the current European Champions, to a goalless draw, showcasing decisive defensive prowess in Atlanta.

The football drama continued in Seattle, as Egypt's hopes for a first-ever World Cup victory were dashed by Belgium. A rapid goal from Emam Ashour seemed to secure the win, but a fortuitous own goal encouraged by Romelu Lukaku ensured the game ended in a 1-1 stalemate.

Meanwhile, in Miami, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia battled fiercely, resulting in a 1-1 draw with a late equalizer from Maximiliano Araujo. These outcomes left Group H teams—Spain, Cape Verde, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia—all tied with one point. Iran and New Zealand rounded off the day in Los Angeles, drawing 2-2 in their respective World Cup openers, with New Zealand still on the hunt for their first-ever World Cup victory.