Does Mikel Oyarzabal play today? Spain vs Cape Verde at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Spain debuts at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Mikel Oyarzabal as a starter in attack. The 29-year-old Real Sociedad striker wins his place in the duel against Cape Verde this Monday (15), at 1pm (Brasília time), at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, in Atlanta. The clash opens Group H for both teams.
Mikel Oyarzabal has established himself as a reliable option under the command of Luis de la Fuente, thanks to his tactical intelligence, eye for goal, high pressing ability and versatility to play centrally or on the wings. By managing the minutes of young players like Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, the Real Sociedad player takes the lead in the offensive sector, offering experience and a constant threat in the area.
Cape Verde is experiencing a historic moment as the smallest nation to compete in the World Cup. The Blue Tubarões, coached by Bubista and ranked 67th, are betting on defensive organization to try to surprise favorite Spain.
Mikel Oyarzabal’s role and Spain formation
Mikel Oyarzabal will play in a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation, as a reference in attack alongside Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo, with Unai Simón in goal, Marcos Llorente on the right flank, Aymeric Laporte and Pau Cubarsí in defense, and Marc Cucurella on the left. In midfield, Rodri, Pedri and Fabián Ruiz guarantee control and creation. His movement helps in creating spaces and precise finishing.
Leia Também
Where to watch South Africa vs Canada live at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Saudi Aramco aircraft crash results in 14 deaths near oil terminal in Saudi Arabia
Portuguese newspaper criticizes Cristiano Ronaldo’s performance in Portugal’s draw; Diogo Costa is elected highlight
At 29 years old, Oyarzabal has played in major competitions with the national team and represents the experience necessary to lead the attack in a World Cup.
Practical impact for the Spanish campaign
Having Mikel Oyarzabal starting on his debut reinforces the presence of an experienced striker at La Roja, essential for breaking through closed defenses like Cape Verde’s and transmitting confidence for the following duels against Uruguay and Saudi Arabia. A good performance from the center forward could be decisive in the search for the title, consolidating his importance in the squad while young talents are preserved. For Cape Verde, neutralizing Oyarzabal’s eye for goal increases the level of difficulty of their historic debut.
Referee Adham Mohammad commands the game in Atlanta, with mostly Spanish fans expected.
Where to watch live:Broadcast on CazéTV on YouTube, with complete real-time coverage on the main Brazilian portals.
