Spain aim for a perfect World Cup start against tournament debutants Cape Verde in Atlanta on Monday.
Luis de la Fuente boasts a spectacular squad that won the European Championship against England in 2024. They are heavy favourites to win Group H, which also features Saudi Arabia and Uruguay.
Spain won the tournament in 2010 but suffered frustrating early exits during their last three World Cup appearances. La Roja enter this match unbeaten in 10 games, securing seven victories during that impressive run.
Meanwhile, Cape Verde are making absolute FIFA World Cup history. The Blue Sharks finished ahead of Cameroon in their qualification group to secure this momentous debut. Bubista’s side arrive in high spirits after winning their last three international matches.
That recent winning streak includes confident 3-0 victories over both Serbia and Bermuda. They know Spain represent their toughest opponents, yet the African side hope to cause a massive upset. Cape Verde play with total freedom and zero pressure, making them a potentially dangerous opponent.
Spain vs Cape Verde – Match preview and team news
- Date: Monday, 15 June 2026
- Kick-off: 17:00 BST
- Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
- Referee: Adham Makhadmeh (Jordan)
Team news
Spain
Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams recently returned to full training after recovering from their respective injury problems. However, Luis de la Fuente will likely start his recovering star wingers on the bench.
Victor Munoz is a major doubt for this clash due to a frustrating muscular overload. Ferran Torres and Alex Baena should start in attack alongside Mikel Oyarzabal to complete the front three. Pedro Porro expects to start at right-back, while Fabian Ruiz, Rodri, and Pedri will form the midfield.
Cape Verde
On the other hand, Cape Verde report no fitness concerns ahead of this historic clash. Ryan Mendes is their all-time highest goalscorer, having netted 22 goals in 97 caps. The 36-year-old veteran will start for the Blue Sharks alongside talented attacker Dailon Livramento. Livramento has seven goals in 22 caps, while Villarreal defender Logan Costa will anchor the backline.
Form
Spain
Spain arrive as the second-ranked team in the world according to the official FIFA standings. They secured a confident 3-1 win over Peru recently to cap off their tournament preparations. De la Fuente has perfected a dynamic 4-3-3 attacking system that tore through the European qualifiers. They scored 21 goals in six qualifying matches and look to secure an early advantage in Atlanta.
Cape Verde
Cape Verde achieved a genuine miracle during African qualifying by edging out powerhouse Cameroon. The Blue Sharks recently beat Serbia and Bermuda to build incredible momentum ahead of the tournament. Bubista relies heavily on experienced captain Ryan Mendes, while Jovane Cabral provides explosive pace for counter-attacks.
Predicted lineups
Spain Predicted XI: Simon; Porro, Cubarsi, Laporte, Cucurella; Ruiz, Rodri, Pedri; F Torres, Oyarzabal, Baena
Cape Verde Predicted XI: Vozinha; Moreira, Costa, Pico, Paulo; Semedo, Pina; Mendes, Monteiro, Cabral; Dailon
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.
Read more – David Raya determined to be Spain’s number one for World Cup
See Also- 10 of the most unforgettable FIFA World Cup moments
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