Does Jamiro Monteiro play today? Spain vs Cape Verde at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Jamiro Monteiro, the 32-year-old central midfielder who plays for PEC Zwolle, from the Netherlands, 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 marks the Blue Sharks’ historic debut in the tournament.
Jamiro Gregory Monteiro Alvarenga was born on November 23, 1993, in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, to immigrant parents from Cape Verde. Despite facing doubts due to his slighter physique in his youth and a period of unemployment at the age of 21, he built a solid career in European and American football.
Revealed in the Dutch youth categories, Jamiro played for clubs such as Sparta Rotterdam, Metz (France), Philadelphia Union and San Jose Earthquakes (MLS), Gaziantep (Turkey) and now plays for PEC Zwolle. His vision of the game, precise passing and leadership in midfield make him a fundamental part of the team.
Jamiro Monteiro’s inspiring trajectory
Since making his debut for the Cape Verde national team in 2016, Jamiro has accumulated more than 49 games and five goals with the national shirt. He was essential in the African Qualifiers, contributing to the direct berth by helping the team overcome Cameroon and other opponents.
At 32 years old, the midfielder arrives at the World Cup in good form at PEC Zwolle, with accumulated experience in different leagues. His story of overcoming — from unemployment to MLS and now to the World Cup — serves as an inspiration to the Cape Verdean generation.
Spain arrives undefeated and as favorites
The Spanish team, led by Luis de la Fuente, is one of the great candidates for the title. Undefeated for 30 games, winner of the European Championship and the Nations League, they are looking 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 experienced midfield
Bubista must field a balanced team, with Jamiro Monteiro as organizer to connect defense and attack against the Spanish talent.
Probable lineup for Cape Verde: Vozinha; Wagner Pina (or Steven Moreira), Diney Borges, Pico Lopes and Sidny Cabral; Kevin Lenini, Deroy Duarte, Jamiro Monteiro, Jovane Cabral 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.
















