Spain's route to FIFA World Cup 2026 final: Full knockout path
(Courtesy : Getty)
Spain won their only FIFA World Cup title in 2010
UEFA Euro 2024 champions Spain have one of the strongest squads in the FIFA World Cup 2026. La Roja won Group H comfortably and have now made it to the round of 32 as they chase their dream to add the second star to their crest.
Luis de la Fuente’s team started their World Cup campaign with a minor hiccup as they drew to debutants Cape Verde. The game saw Spain attempt 27 shots but they couldn’t find the target in the goalless affair.
La Roja, however, put their struggles aside in their next game as Lamine Yamal and Oyarzabal got on the scoresheet as Spain hammered Saudi Arabia 4-0. The European champions followed this up with a 1-0 win over Uruguay to end their group stage with seven points.
One of the biggest positives for Spain would be that they haven’t conceded a goal in the group stage. As the dream for their second title continues, here is Spain’s projected route to the FIFA World Cup 2026 final:
Spain’s Round of 32 opponent – Austria
The Spanish football team will begin the knockouts journey with a match against Austria, who finished second in Group J behind Argentina. Ranked 24th in the World, the Austrians have had a hot and cold campaign so far and needed a late equalizer against Algeria to come here.
Though both are European nations, Austria and Spain last played each other in the 1978 World Cup, where the Austrians won 1-0. This will be their first meeting after 48 years.
Date, Time, and Location: 3rd July (12:30 am IST) – Los Angeles Stadium, USA
Spain’s possible round of 16 opponent – Portugal/Croatia
Spain will face the winners of Portugal vs Croatia if they manage to beat Austria. La Roja have shared the pitch with both Portugal and Croatia many times over the last two decades and the games have always been exciting.
The Iberian derby against Portugal would, in particular, be intense as Spain will be looking for their revenge after losing the UEFA Nations League 2025 final to Cristiano Ronaldo and company.
Date, Time, and Location: 7th July (12:30 am IST) – Dallas Stadium, USA
Also Read: Brazil’s route to FIFA World Cup 2026 final
Who could Spain face in the quarterfinals of the FIFA World Cup 2026?
If Spain manage to make it to the quarterfinals, they could face a potential underdog in either USA, Bosnia, Belgium, or Senegal. While on paper, the former World Champions would be favourites, this quarterfinal tie could be a tricky affair.
The hosts, USA, have in particular impressed in the tournament so far and are looking strong. Belgium, on the other hand, have match-winners like Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Leandro Trossard leading the lines.
Date, Time, and Location: 11th July (12:30 am IST) – Los Angeles Stadium, USA
Spain’s probable opponents in the semifinals of the FIFA World Cup 2026?
Luis de la Fuente’s team are on the tougher side of the pot and the semifinal could see them go up against European giants – France or Germany. Another major name in the pool would be the Netherlands, against whom Spain have already played some memorable games in the FIFA World Cup.
All probable opponents for Spain in the semifinal: Germany, Paraguay, Sweden, France, Netherlands, Morocco, Canada, South Africa
Date, Time, and Location: 15th July (12:30 am IST) – Dallas Stadium, USA
Who could Spain face in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final?
If Spain make it to the final, it would be through sheer hard work as their path is not easy. As a reward, La Roja would likely have Brazil, England, or Argentina as a probable opponent in the final. Colombia, Japan, Norway, and the others will also have an outside chance to make it all the way.
A match against Argentina would see Lionel Messi going up against his protege, Lamine Yamal. Brazil and England will be no pushovers either, as both have world-class players in their ranks.
Date, Time, and Location: 20th July (12:30 am IST) – New York New Jersey Stadium, USA
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Aasif, a football fan turned writer, has been writing about the sport since 2020. Based in Chennai, it is no surprise that love for Chennaiyin FC runs in his blood. Apart from Indian football, Aasif has also written and edited articles extensively about European football.