Spain starting lineup vs Cape Verde confirmed for FIFA World Cup 2026 clash

Spain will face Cape Verde for the first time in the FIFA World Cup.

Drawn in Group H of the FIFA World Cup 2026, Spain are set to face Cape Verde in their opening game. While La Roja are one of the most successful sides in the tournament’s history, Cape Verde have become the third smallest country by population to secure a spot in the 2026 edition of the coveted tournament.

In 2010, La Roja secured a close 1-0 victory over the Netherlands to win their maiden FIFA World Cup title. While more titles were expected from the side in subsequent campaigns, La Roja’s last three campaigns have been disappointing.

In 2014, they were shockingly eliminated in the group stage. La Roja reached the Round of 16 at the 2018 World Cup but lost on penalties to hosts Russia. During the last edition, La Roja suffered a similarly styled defeat against Morocco in the pre-quarterfinals.

However, the new team under Luis de la Fuente looks strong and hungry for the coveted accolade. The teams have experienced players such as Rodri, Fabián Ruiz, Aymeric Laporte, Unai Simón, and Mikel Oyarzabal, who would provide stability to the team’s framework.

On the other hand, the team also has some of the most promising young talents across the globe, such as Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams and Pau Cubarsi, who know how to play fearless football.

Also Read: Who will referee Spain vs Cape Verde FIFA World Cup 2026 match?

Spain’s confirmed lineup for the FIFA World Cup match against Cape Verde:

Spain (4-3-3): Unai Simón (WK); Marcos Llorente, Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella; Rodri (c), Pedri, Fabián Ruiz; Gavi, Mikel Oyarzabal, Ferran Torres.

Substitutes: David Raya (GK), Joan García (GK), Marc Pubill, Alejandro Grimaldo, Eric García, Pedro Porro, Mikel Merino, Álex Baena, Dani Olmo, Yeremy Pino, Martín Zubimendi, Nico Williams, Lamine Yamal, Víctor Muñoz, Borja Iglesias

Thoughts on the lineup

La Roja’s full priority have been the full recovery of Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, who also played a crucial role in their European Championships triumph in 2024.

Even in their absence from the starting XI, Luis de la Fuente’s side looks strong enough to face any team in the World Cup, courtesy of its balanced and experienced midfield and defence units.

Mikel Oyarzabal would have to lead the pack, as he’s expected to score for La Roja while getting support from Ferran Torres.

Forward runs can be expected from Marc Cucurella, while Marcos Llorente might prefer sticking to the defence line alongside Aymeric Laporte and Pau Cubarsi. Unai Simon is the most experienced option for the Spanish side and can keep the gloves.

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