Spain stunned, Ronaldo ruined, USA stuns in World Cup chaos
Spain’s opening loss, Ronaldo’s struggles, and the USMNT’s breakthrough expose the 2026 World Cup’s early unpredictability.
Spain’s World Cup campaign began with a 2-1 defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina in a Group B opener on June 12, 2026, at SoFi Stadium. The reigning European champions were undone by two first-half goals from Bosnia, with Spain’s midfield overwhelmed and their possession game neutralized. The loss marked the first time Spain had dropped an opening match at a World Cup since 1962.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s struggles stole headlines after Portugal’s 1-0 loss to Morocco in their Group C opener on June 13, 2026. The 39-year-old forward, playing his fifth World Cup, was subbed off in the 72nd minute with a groin strain, adding to Portugal’s attacking woes. Morocco’s disciplined defense and rapid transitions exposed Portugal’s lack of cohesion, leaving Ronaldo visibly frustrated as he watched from the bench.
