Group H: Spain eye strong start as Cape Verde mark historic debut

KATHMANDU: Spain will kick off their FIFA World Cup 2026 journey on Monday night against debutants Cape Verde in Group H, aiming for a strong start to their title challenge. The match will begin at 9:45 PM (Nepal time).

Widely regarded as one of the tournament favourites alongside France, the Spain national football team are entering the competition under head coach Luis de la Fuente, who previously guided them to UEFA Euro 2024 glory after defeating England in the final.

Spain, world champions in 2010, have struggled in recent World Cups. They exited in the group stage in 2014 and were eliminated in the Round of 16 in both 2018 and 2022.

However, their current form suggests renewed strength, with the team unbeaten in their last 10 matches, including a 3–1 friendly win over Peru.

The European giants will also face Saudi Arabia national football team and Uruguay national football team in what is considered a competitive Group H.

Spain are expected to dominate on paper, but Cape Verde enter the match with confidence after a historic qualification campaign that included victories over strong sides such as Cameroon. This marks their first-ever World Cup appearance.

The Cape Verde national football team, led by Bubista, are on a three-match winning streak, including an impressive 3–0 win over Serbia and another identical scoreline against Bermuda in recent fixtures.

Spain may rotate key players, with Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams likely to start on the bench after recovering from injury. Ferran Torres, Álex Baena, and Mikel Oyarzabal are expected to lead the attack, supported by a midfield featuring Rodri, Pedri, and Fabián Ruiz.

Cape Verde’s main attacking threat will be veteran winger Ryan Mendes, their all-time top scorer with 22 goals in 97 appearances.

In the same group, Saudi Arabia will face Uruguay early Tuesday morning at 3:45 AM (Nepal time), setting up another crucial clash in Group H.