It is only the seventh time a nation has avoided defeat on their World Cup debut, and for a country of just over 500,000 people, the result against one of the tournament's leading favourites will resonate long after the final whistle in Georgia.
Spain had 27 shots across the 90 minutes and dominated possession throughout, but found no way past a disciplined Cape Verde rearguard marshalled superbly by 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha, who made seven saves to preserve his side's point.
The veteran stopper was at his best in the first half, producing outstanding stops to deny Mikel Oyarzabal, Aymeric Laporte and Ferran Torres in quick succession, with Torres also striking the crossbar from what appeared Spain's best chance of the contest.
Luis de la Fuente's side grew increasingly frustrated as the match wore on, eventually turning to Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo and Nico Williams from the bench with 20 minutes remaining, but still could not find the breakthrough.
Cape Verde coach Bubista, who masterminded their qualification by going through the African group stage with seven wins, two draws and one defeat, was understandably emotional after the final whistle.
"It means everything, for the country first of all," he said.
"We said we wanted everybody to see our country, our team. We showed organisation and courage. The team were good in our defending, our defensive organisation, and were never too hurried at the back. We want to do more at this World Cup."
Cape Verde midfielder Laros Duarte also reflected on the performance, and looked forward to what might follow.
"Today our focus was on defence but we can show in the other games how good we are with the ball," Duarte said.
"I have a good feeling moving forward because we know what we're capable of. It's realistic to start thinking now about qualifying for the next round and the feeling is good."
Vozinha, at 40 the oldest goalkeeper in this year's tournament, was reflective about the enormity of what his country had achieved.
"We worked a lot for this," the goalkeeper said.
"We knew we were playing against one of the best national teams in the world but we also know our quality. We worked a lot for this big day. We knew it was going to be very difficult but we're very happy."
The result leaves Group H wide open. Spain have a single point alongside Cape Verde, with Uruguay and Saudi Arabia yet to play their opener.
For Spain, the draw represents a significant stumble. They arrive in North America as European champions and among the favourites to win the tournament, but the clinical finishing that could turn their territorial dominance into goals must improve sharply before their next fixture.
For Cape Verde, the point is already the greatest result in their football history — and Bubista's side is under no obligation to stop there.