Spain x Cape Verde line-up confirmed at the 2026 FIFA World Cup By Janderson Luiz
2 min read
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Spain enters the field this Monday (15) with the lineup defined for the debut clash in Group H of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Coach Luis de la Fuente opted for an experienced and balanced team against Cape Verde, at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, in Atlanta, in the United States.
Spain’s starting formation is as follows, in a 4-3-3 formation: Unai Simón in goal; Marcos Llorente, Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte and Marc Cucurella in defense; Pedri, Rodri (captain) and Fabián Ruiz in midfield; Ferran Torres, Mikel Oyarzabal and Gavi in attack.
Cape Verde, which is competing in its first World Cup in history, also had its lineup confirmed in 4-2-3-1: Vozinha; Steven Moreira, Pico, Diney and Sidny Lopes Cabral on the defensive line; Kevin Lenini and Laros Duarte on the steering wheel; Ryan Mendes (captain), Jamiro Monteiro and Jovane Cabral in the middle; and Dailon Livramento as center forward.
The duel marks the first meeting between the two teams. While Spain arrives as one of the favorites for the title, after winning Euro 2024, Cape Verde seeks to surprise in its debut in the tournament. The African team, led by Bubista, qualified for the first time and represents one of the smallest countries to reach the World Cup.
The match starts at 1pm (Brasília time), broadcast live on CazéTV on YouTube and Betano. The referee will be Adham Mohammad.
Confirmed lineup defines initial strategy
De La Fuente opted to maintain the base that worked in the preparation friendlies, leaving names like Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams on the bench, who are recovering from injuries, but should enter during the match if necessary. Gavi’s presence in the attacking trio reinforces the intensity and high pressure from the start.
For Cape Verde, the lineup highlights the experience of players with experience in European leagues, such as Ryan Mendes and Jovane Cabral. The focus will be on defensive organization and quick counterattacks to disrupt Spanish possession.
What’s at stake in Group H
Victory is considered an obligation for Spain, who still face Uruguay and Saudi Arabia in the group stage. Cape Verde, on the other hand, needs to score to keep its chances of advancement alive, in a balanced group. The initial result could set the tone for both teams’ campaign in the 48-team tournament.
