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Spain is aiming for its second FIFA World Cup title at the 2026 tournament, which will be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Their only previous win was 16 years ago.
Spain is in Group H with Saudi Arabia, Uruguay, and Cabo Verde. Their first match is against Cabo Verde on Monday, June 16, at 19:00 local time in Atlanta Stadium.
Saudi Arabia and Uruguay will play the other opening match in Group H on Tuesday, June 17, at 1:00 a.m. local time in Miami Stadium.
Spain has played in 16 FIFA World Cups, including the last 13 in a row. The team won its only title in 2010 in South Africa and now hopes to end a 16-year wait for another championship.
Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal leads Spain's new generation. At just 18, he is seen as one of the world's top attacking talents, known for his speed, skill in one-on-one situations, vision, and finishing. This will be his first World Cup. Yamal is recovering from a muscle injury but is expected to play against Cabo Verde.
Spain's midfield features Pedri from Barcelona, Rodri from Manchester City, Fabian Ruiz from Paris Saint-Germain, as well as Gavi and Martin Zubimendi. Together, they make up one of the most experienced midfields in the tournament.
For the first time in 92 years at the World Cup, Spain's squad does not include any Real Madrid players. The club was also not represented in Spain's UEFA Euro 2020 squad.
Cabo Verde is making its first-ever appearance at a FIFA World Cup. Coached by Pedro Leitao Brito, the team, known as the 'Blue Sharks', is recognized for its strong defense and organized play. Key players include defender Wagner Pina from Trabzonspor, Nuno da Costa from Basaksehir, and Ryan Mendes from Igdir FK.
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