CORNERFLICK
Spain open their 2026 World Cup campaign against Cape Verde at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, with the holders expected to have the stronger side on paper.
Luis de la Fuente’s team arrive with momentum after winning Euro 2024 and Olympic gold in Paris, and they were sharp in qualifying too, scoring 21 goals and conceding only two across six games.
Cape Verde, coached by Rui Águas, earned a historic place at the finals by finishing above Cameroon and Angola in their African qualifying group. They are likely to stay compact in a 4-2-3-1 and look for chances on the break.
Spain are set up in a 4-3-3 and will lean on Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, Pedri and Rodri to control the game. The battle down the wings could be decisive, with Yamal and Williams expected to test the Cape Verde defence early.
Ryan Mendes and Dailon Livramento offer Cape Verde their best route forward in transition, but Spain enter Group H looking for a clean start.