Spain's players in action during a training session. (AFP)
Doha, Qatar: Spain will begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign against Cabo Verde today, with the former world champions aiming to make a strong start in Group H and take an early step towards the knockout stages.
The match, scheduled for 7pm (Qatar time) at Atlanta Stadium, marks the opening fixture in Group H, which also features Saudi Arabia and Uruguay. With every point likely to prove crucial in the battle for qualification, both teams will be determined to open their campaigns with a victory.
Spain arrive at the tournament after finishing first in UEFA qualifying Group E to secure automatic qualification. Under head coach Luis de la Fuente, La Roja have established themselves among the contenders for the title, blending experienced internationals with an exciting generation of young players.
Spain’s only World Cup triumph came in 2010.
Despite Spain’s status as one of the favourites, De la Fuente insists his attention is focused solely on the opening match.
Cabo Verde players in action during a training session.
“Being a favourite isn’t a disadvantage, but are we bigger favourites than France, Brazil or Argentina?” the coach said. “The most important game is Cape Verde.”
The Spain coach also confirmed that all members of his squad are available ahead of the tournament opener, giving him a full range of options for the clash in Atlanta.
Among the players expected to shine is teenage star Lamine Yamal, who is preparing for his first World Cup appearance.
“It gives me goosebumps to think I’ll be part of it,” the 18-year-old said ahead of the tournament.
While Spain are targeting a successful start, Cabo Verde arrive in the United States carrying the momentum of a historic qualification campaign. The African nation secured its first-ever appearance at the FIFA World Cup finals after finishing first in Group D of the CAF qualifiers.
Head coach Pedro Leitao Brito, known as Bubista, views the tournament as a unique opportunity for his players and the nation as a whole.
“When we qualified, I said that we wanted to play the best teams at the World Cup, and we were lucky to get Spain,” Bubista said.
“We’re going to play against one of the best teams in the world. There’s no fear. We’re not scared of anything.”
The Cabo Verde coach also described the World Cup as a chance to inspire future generations and demonstrate that smaller nations can compete on football’s biggest stage.
Midfielder Telmo Arcanjo believes his side can rise to the challenge despite facing one of the tournament favourites.
“We know the quality Spain has and the challenge that lies ahead of us, but we also know what we are capable of when we are united and focused,” Arcanjo said.
Veteran player Roberto Carlos Lopes, known as Pico, believes Cabo Verde must remain ambitious despite facing one of the strongest teams in the competition.
“Spain are one of the best teams in the world, which you have to respect, but you still must believe you can win,” Pico said. “We got here on merit, and we have to be competitive now.”
