Does Deroy Duarte play today? Spain vs Cape Verde at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Deroy Duarte, the 26-year-old midfielder who plays for Ludogorets Razgrad, from Bulgaria, will be one of Cape Verde’s main names this Monday, at 1 pm (Brasília time), against Spain, in Atlanta. The match opens the first round of Group H of the 2026 World Cup and represents the Blue Sharks’ historic debut in the tournament.

Deroy d’Encarnação Duarte was born on July 4, 1999, in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Of Cape Verdean descent, he chose to play for the African team in 2022. At 1.77m tall, he stands out for his versatility in midfield, playing as a midfielder or central midfielder, with good passing and ball recovery.

Formed at the Sparta Rotterdam academy, Duarte played at Fortuna Sittard before arriving at Ludogorets in 2024. At the Bulgarian club, he established himself as a starter and gained experience in European competitions, which will be fundamental against Spain’s technical midfield.

Deroy Duarte’s career

Since making his debut for the Cape Verde national team in 2022, Deroy has played around 25 games. He was important in the African Qualifiers, contributing to the direct place by helping the team overcome Cameroon. Brother of fellow player Laros Duarte, he represents the new Cape Verdean generation.

At 26 years old, the midfielder arrives at the World Cup in good form at Ludogorets, with consistent performances in the Bulgarian league and in continental competitions. His presence alongside Kevin Lenini and other teammates gives balance to the team led by Bubista.

Spain arrives as big favorite

The Spanish team, unbeaten in 30 games under Luis de la Fuente, is one of the main candidates for the title. Winner of the European Championship and the League of Nations, she seeks to overcome early eliminations in World Cups since 2010.

Probable lineup for Spain: Unai Simón; Llorente, Laporte, Eric García and Cucurella; Rodri, Pedri and Fabián Ruiz; Dani Olmo (or Baena), Ferrán Torres and Oyarzabal.

Cape Verde bets on a fierce midfield

Bubista should field a compact team, with Deroy Duarte as a versatile piece to help with marking and transition.

Probable lineup for Cape Verde: Vozinha; Wagner Pina (or Steven Moreira), Diney Borges, Pico Lopes and Sidny Cabral; Kevin Lenini, Deroy Duarte, Telmo Arcanjo, Jamiro Monteiro and Ryan Mendes; Nuno da Costa (or Livramento).

Arbitration and where to watch

Referee: Adham Makhadmeh (JOR) Assistants: Mohammad Al-Kalaf (JOR) and Ahmad Al-Roalle (JOR) Fourth referee: Andres Rojas (COL) VAR: Joe Dickerson (USA)

Real time: ge follows all bids. Transmission: Cazé TV.