The Spain national team begins its FIFA World Cup 2026 journey on Monday with a Group H clash against Cape Verde. The match represents an important opportunity for the side managed by Luis de la Fuente to start the tournament with a victory and reinforce its status as one of the contenders for the title.

La Roja arrives at the World Cup with a squad full of talent and international experience. After several years of building a competitive project, the Spanish side is considered among the favorites to challenge for the trophy and pursue a second World Cup crown. Standing in their way is a Cape Verde team making its first-ever appearance on football’s biggest stage and hoping to become one of the tournament’s surprise packages.

Spain Relies on Its Star-Studded Midfield

Everything points to Luis de la Fuente maintaining a strong midfield core featuring three players of exceptional quality. Rodri is expected to dictate the tempo of the match, supported by Pedri and Fabián Ruiz, who provide creativity, possession control, and attacking threat.

In goal, there are no doubts regarding the starting role of Unai Simón, while the defensive line is expected to feature Marcos Llorente, Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte, and Marc Cucurella.

The biggest talking point comes in attack. Although Lamine Yamal has recovered physically, all indications suggest he will begin the match on the bench. In that scenario, Álex Baena would have the opportunity to join Mikel Oyarzabal and Ferran Torres in the front line.

Spain’s projected lineup is: Unai Simón; Marcos Llorente, Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella; Rodri, Pedri, Fabián Ruiz; Álex Baena, Mikel Oyarzabal, and Ferran Torres.

Cape Verde Looks to Make History in Its World Cup Debut

For Cape Verde, this match represents a historic occasion. The team coached by Bubista secured an unprecedented qualification through an outstanding campaign and now aims to prove it can compete at the highest level.

The African manager is expected to rely on players such as Vozinha, Logan Costa, Ryan Mendes, Jovane Cabral, and Dailon Rocha Livramento, footballers tasked with leading the national team during its historic World Cup debut.

While Spain is the clear favorite on paper, the newcomers arrive with nothing to lose and the belief that they can take advantage of any opportunity against one of Europe’s football powerhouses. Their objective will be to remain organized defensively and look for chances on the counterattack.

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