Monday, June 15, 2026: Spain go silent, Belgium are slowed, Sweden impress

Ivory Coast beat Ecuador 1-0, a modest but very valuable result in Group E. After Germany's huge win, they needed to respond without being hypnotised by the previous day's 7-1. Ivory Coast chose efficiency and positioned themselves as the first credible challenger.

Sweden then struck hard against Tunisia, winning 5-1. In a group where the Netherlands had already dropped two points against Japan, the score carried extra value. Sweden did not just win, they sent a message of confidence and built a goal difference that could become a real asset.

Spain were held 0-0 by Cape Verde. For a major nation, this kind of match is uncomfortable because it offers no flattering reading. Defensively, there was safety. Going forward, there was a block. Cape Verde resisted, closed space and turned their opener into a historic result.

Belgium were also slowed, drawing 1-1 with Egypt. Again, not a disaster, but an opener that felt incomplete.

Group H took an unexpected turn with Spain being held. When a favourite drops two points against an outsider, the whole group changes posture. Other teams begin to think something is possible.

In Group F, Sweden took advantage of the Dutch draw and stepped forward with authority. The score against Tunisia could matter greatly if the group tightens.

Cape Verde were the obvious breakout story. Holding Spain to 0-0 is more than one point. It is proof of discipline, courage and maturity.

Sweden sent the most spectacular signal. On a day when favourites slowed down, they chose full acceleration.

Spain needed to find goals quickly. Belgium needed to clarify their status. Sweden could already start looking higher, because they had a solid base in points and confidence.