Steven Moreira Playing Today? Spain vs Cape Verde at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Steven Moreira, the 31-year-old right-back and defender who plays for Columbus Crew, from the United States, will be one of Cape Verde’s main names this Monday, at 1pm (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.
Steven Moreira was born in Noisy-le-Grand, France, on August 13, 1994. Trained in the youth teams of French football, he represented France’s youth teams, including at the 2013 Under-19 Euro, before opting for Cape Verde in 2023, his parents’ country of origin. Since then, he has accumulated around 18 calls.
At the Columbus Crew since August 2021, Moreira has played more than 140 games, with four goals and important contributions. In 2024, he was named the club’s Defender of the Year and was part of the MLS All-Stars team. His American football experience will be valuable against Spain’s fast-paced attack.
Steven Moreira’s career
The defender debuted for Cape Verde’s senior team in October 2023, in a defeat to Algeria. He helped the team in the African Qualifiers, contributing to the direct place by beating Cameroon. At 31 years old, he is experiencing the peak of his career by playing in his first World Cup.
Moreira has already declared that representing Cape Verde is a dream come true, especially for being able to play the World Cup in North America, where he works on a daily basis. His versatility to play as a winger or central defender gives coach Bubista options.
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 erase her early eliminations 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 European and American experience
Bubista should count on a solid defense, with Steven Moreira as a versatile option on the wing or in defense.
Probable lineup for Cape Verde: Vozinha; Wagner Pina (or Steven Moreira), Diney Borges, Pico Lopes and Sidny Cabral; Kelvin Pires, Telmo Arcanjo, 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.
