Does Kevin Lenini play today? Spain vs Cape Verde at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Kevin Lenini, the 29-year-old defensive midfielder who plays for Krasnodar, in Russia, 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.
Kevin Lenini Gonçalves Pereira de Pina was born on January 27, 1997, in Praia, capital of Cape Verde. At 1.81m tall, he stands out for his physical strength, tackling ability and vision of the game, attributes that made him a starter in the national team’s midfield.
Trained in Portugal, Lenini played for clubs such as Anadia, Sertanense and Chaves before arriving at Krasnodar in 2022. At the Russian club, he established himself as a fundamental player, accumulating experience in European competitions that will be crucial against the talented Spanish midfield.
Kevin Lenini’s career
Since making his debut for the main team in 2022, Lenini has played around 28 to 31 games and a few goals for Cape Verde. He was instrumental in the African Qualifiers, helping the team eliminate Cameroon and secure a direct place in the World Cup.
At 29 years old, the midfielder arrives at the World Cup in good shape, with recent high-level performances at Krasnodar, including goals and high ratings. His presence alongside names like Telmo Arcanjo and Jamiro Monteiro gives Bubista’s team balance and determination.
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 improve their performance in World Cups since 2010.
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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 midfield solidity
Bubista must field a compact team, with Kevin Lenini as an anchor in the middle to contain the Spanish pace.
Probable lineup for Cape Verde: Vozinha; Wagner Pina (or Steven Moreira), Diney Borges, Pico Lopes and Sidny Cabral; Kelvin Pires, Kevin Lenini, 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.
