Spain open their World Cup campaign against debutants Cape Verde

What happened

Spain begin their World Cup campaign on Monday against Cape Verde at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, opening their Group H schedule against a side appearing at the finals for the first time. One of the pre-tournament favourites, Spain go in with winger Lamine Yamal reported to be in line to feature after an earlier fitness concern eased in the build-up.

Why it matters

The fixture marks the entrance of one of the tournament's heavyweights, several days after the other contenders began their campaigns with mixed results. For Cape Verde, the islanders' first World Cup match is a milestone in itself, the latest debutant to reach the expanded 48-team finals, while Spain are under pressure to make a confident start in a group they are expected to top.

Context

Cape Verde sealed their historic qualification through the African section, joining a wave of first-time nations at the 2026 finals that also includes Curaçao, who were beaten 7-1 by Germany on Sunday. Spain, meanwhile, carry strong recent pedigree and depth, and the availability of Yamal removes one of the few doubts that shadowed their preparation.

What to watch next

The immediate focus is Spain's team selection and whether Yamal starts or is eased in, and how the favourites break down a disciplined, low-block opponent in their opener. Beyond Monday, attention turns to the rest of Group H and to whether Cape Verde can use their debut as a platform across their remaining fixtures.