Spain begin their quest for a second FIFA World Cup title when they take on tournament newcomers Cape Verde in their Group H opener at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Monday.
La Roja enter the competition among the favourites to lift the trophy, while Cape Verde are set to make history by playing their first-ever match at a World Cup finals.
Match Preview
Spain arrive at the 2026 World Cup carrying significant expectations following their triumph at Euro 2024. Under Luis de la Fuente, La Roja have developed into one of the most complete teams in international football, blending experienced stars with a new generation of exciting talent.
The 2010 world champions have endured disappointing World Cup campaigns in recent years, suffering a group-stage exit in 2014 before falling in the Round of 16 in both 2018 and 2022. However, confidence is high heading into this tournament after an impressive unbeaten run of 10 matches, including a 3-1 victory over Peru in their final warm-up game.
With Uruguay and Saudi Arabia also in Group H, Spain will be determined to make a strong start and underline their status as favourites to finish top of the group.
Cape Verde, meanwhile, are preparing for the biggest match in their football history. The Blue Sharks secured a historic qualification after finishing ahead of Cameroon in their qualifying group and will now make their World Cup debut on the grandest stage.
Bubista’s side arrive in the United States in encouraging form, having won their last three matches. Their preparations included impressive 3-0 victories over Serbia and Bermuda, results that have boosted confidence within the squad ahead of their opening assignment.
While Spain represent the toughest challenge in the group, Cape Verde will be eager to prove they belong at this level and could still harbour ambitions of challenging for qualification when they face Uruguay and Saudi Arabia in their remaining group matches.
Recent Form
Spain (all competitions):
W – D – W – D – D – W
Cape Verde (all competitions):
L – L – L – W – W – W
Team News
Spain have received a major boost with star wingers Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams returning to training after recent injury concerns. However, both players are expected to start on the bench as De la Fuente manages their fitness.
With Victor Munoz also facing a late fitness test, Ferran Torres, Alex Baena and Mikel Oyarzabal are likely to lead the attack. Rodri, Pedri and Fabian Ruiz are expected to form a strong midfield trio, while Pedro Porro could start at right-back.
Cape Verde have a fully fit squad available for their historic opener. Veteran captain Ryan Mendes is expected to feature prominently, while Dailon Livramento will provide attacking threat after scoring seven goals in 22 international appearances.
At the back, Villarreal defender Logan Costa is set to marshal the defence as the Blue Sharks attempt to frustrate one of the tournament favourites.
Predicted Lineups
Spain:
Unai Simon; Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella; Fabian Ruiz, Rodri, Pedri; Ferran Torres, Mikel Oyarzabal, Alex Baena.
Cape Verde:
Vozinha; Moreira, Logan Costa, Pico, Paulo; Semedo, Pina; Ryan Mendes, Monteiro, Cabral; Dailon Livramento.
Prediction
Cape Verde deserve enormous credit for reaching their first World Cup, but they face a daunting challenge against one of the strongest squads in the tournament.
Spain’s technical quality, midfield dominance and attacking depth should prove too much for the African debutants. While Cape Verde may show resilience and organisation, La Roja are expected to begin their campaign with a comfortable victory.
Prediction: Spain 3-0 Cape Verde.
