Álex Baena is confirmed in Spain’s starting lineupto face Saudi Arabia this Sunday (21), in the second round of Group H of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Villarreal attacking midfielder is one of Luis de la Fuente’s creative options and starts in the 11 at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, in Atlanta.
Spain is looking for its first victory after the goalless draw with Cape Verde in the debut. Saudi Arabia arrives with a point won against Uruguay.
Spain line-up confirmed
Luis de la Fuente’s team takes to the field in a 4-2-3-1 formation:
- Spain (4-2-3-1):Unai Simón; Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella; Pedri, Rodri (captain); Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo,Alex Baena; Mikel Oyarzabal.
Álex Baena, known for his vision of the game, precise passes and medium-range shots, should play on the left side or as an advanced midfielder, helping to create chances for the Spanish attack.
Saudi Arabia line-up confirmed
Georgios Donis repeated the basis he used in the first round:
- Saudi Arabia (5-3-2):Mohammed Al-Owais; Saud Abdulhamid, Hassan Al-Tambakti, Abdulelah Al-Amri, Ali Lajami, Moteb Al-Harbi; Abdullah Al-Khaibari, Musab Al-Juwayr, Salem Al-Dawsari (captain); Firas Al-Buraikan and another attacker.
The Saudis must close down in defense and explore counterattacks.
Where to watch live
In Brazil, the game will be shown onDisney+, with complementary options on Prime Video and YouTube CazéTV. The match starts at 1pm (Brasília time).
Álex Baena’s role in Spain
Álex Baena gains his opportunity as a starter and can be the difference in creating plays. Spain dominated the debut with a high volume of shots, but struggled to finish — a characteristic that the midfielder could help resolve against a well-organized Saudi Arabia. A victory today is essential for La Roja to remain strong in Group H.
Saudi Arabia (#61 in the ranking) tries to surprise favorite Spain (#2) and take another step towards the knockout stage.
The referee is Brazilian Raphael Claus. The clash in Atlanta should see ball possession dominated by Spain, with Álex Baena actively participating in the construction of the plays.