Spain kick off their World Cup campaign against Cape Verde in Atlanta on Monday.
Luis de la Fuente’s squad arrive as massive tournament favourites and reigning European champions. Spain desperately want to avoid repeating past World Cup disappointments after frustrating early eliminations since 2014. La Roja boast remarkable consistency heading into this summer tournament, remaining unbeaten in their last 10 matches.
They secured seven impressive victories during that excellent run, recently defeating Peru 3-1 in their final warm-up. De la Fuente has perfected a dynamic 4-3-3 attacking system that tore through the European qualifiers. The Spanish side netted an incredible 21 goals in just six matches to secure their tournament spot.
Spain will dictate possession and apply relentless high attacking pressure to control the tempo from kickoff. They want to settle the contest quickly, efficiently sparing their star players from unnecessary physical exertion.
Spain team news
De la Fuente faces several vital selection decisions ahead of this opening Group H clash. Star wingers Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams are recovering from injuries and recently returned to full training. However, the Spanish manager will not risk them from the start, leaving both explosive players on the bench.
This highly cautious approach ensures they remain fully fit for tougher matches later in the tournament. Victor Munoz is also a significant physical doubt as he deals with a frustrating muscular overload.
In his absence, Ferran Torres will start in the attacking line after a strong domestic season. Alex Baena will partner him in the final attacking third to provide crucial creative support. Mikel Oyarzabal will complete the potent and dynamic Spanish front three to break down the African defence.
In defence, Pedro Porro expects to start at right-back alongside Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, and Marc Cucurella. Unai Simon will start between the posts for La Roja to provide stability from the back.
The midfield trio boasts immense technical quality and global experience to completely dominate the ball. Rodri will expertly anchor the midfield and dictate the match tempo alongside his creative teammates.
Pedri will provide his trademark creative wizardry, combining fluidly with Fabian Ruiz to unlock spaces. Spain will monopolise possession and completely pack the final third against a deeply stubborn African defensive block.
Spain predicted lineup
Spain predicted XI: Simon; Porro, Cubarsi, Laporte, Cucurella; Ruiz, Rodri, Pedri; F Torres, Oyarzabal, Baena.
When will the match kick off?
The FIFA World Cup match kicks off at 17:00 BST on Monday, 15 June 2026.
How to watch Spain vs Cape Verde?
In the UK, the match will be broadcast live on ITV1. Viewers in the United States can watch live on Fox Sports.
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