Spain's national football team, the reigning European champions, will start their World Cup challenge today in Atlanta, USA. The team faces Cape Verde at 6pm local time, a match expected to be straightforward for the European champions.
Head coach Luis de la Fuente confirmed that Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams will not start due to recent injuries. Their participation will depend on how the game develops, according to De la Fuente. Spain aims to win its second World Cup, following its 2010 victory, and is considered a favourite in the tournament.
De la Fuente, making his World Cup debut at nearly 65 years old, stressed the importance of every match. "Anyone who thinks this will be an easy game is mistaken. We approach it as the most important match of the World Cup," he said last night. "I am practical and short-term. I didn't dream of being in a World Cup, I dreamed of advancing step by step with my work, day by day. I am in the best moment of my life personally and professionally."
Team Selection and Strategy
With Yamal and Williams out of the starting lineup, Ferran is expected to play on the right wing and Baena on the left, with Dani Olmo also an option. The rest of the team will likely be the one De la Fuente successfully tested in the last friendly against Peru. This includes Fabián, Rodri, and Pedri in midfield, with Cubarsí and Laporte as central defenders, and Simón in goal.
Cape Verde is known for its defensive style, relying on quick counter-attacks. Spain anticipates a typical match against a lesser opponent, where they will maintain a high percentage of ball possession. Germany's initial scare against Curaçao before a large win serves as a reminder for Spain to remain cautious.
Group Stage and Conditions
Spain is in a group with Saudi Arabia and Uruguay, who will play each other in Miami at midnight. Despite the match being played at midday local time, the heat is not expected to be an issue. Temperatures are forecast to be around 27 degrees Celsius, and the Mercedes Benz Stadium has a retractable roof that will likely be closed, partly due to the threat of storms in Atlanta.
De la Fuente also addressed speculation about Cucurella's potential transfer to Real Madrid, stating that it does not create discomfort within the squad. "We live with it normally, it doesn't create uncomfortable situations. If it's good news for him or another teammate, we are as happy as they are," he said.
