News Focus
- Spain manager opts for 4-3-3 formation with Manchester City’s Rodri protecting the defence
- Teenage star Lamine Yamal starts on the bench alongside Nico Williams and Dani Olmo
- Cape Verde set up in a 4-2-3-1 system with Ryan Mendes and Jamiro Monteiro in attack
- Jordanian referee Adham Makhadmeh appointed to officiate the qualifying clash
- Gavi joins Ferran Torres and Mikel Oyarzabal in Spain’s front three
Spain have released their starting eleven for the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier against Cape Verde. Manager Luis de la Fuente has chosen an attacking 4-3-3 shape for the match.
Unai Simón keeps his place in goal. The back four features Marcos Llorente at right-back, Marc Cucurella on the left flank, and a central defensive partnership between Aymeric Laporte and Pau Cubarsí.
In the centre of the pitch, Rodri plays as the holding midfielder. He is supported by Pedri and Fabián Ruiz. The front three includes Gavi, Ferran Torres, and Mikel Oyarzabal.
Spain have dangerous options on the substitutes’ bench. Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal, Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, and RB Leipzig attacker Dani Olmo can enter the pitch later in the game.
Cape Verde will line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Experienced goalkeeper Vozinha starts between the posts. The defence includes Steven Moreira, Steve Borges, Roberto Lopes, and Sidny Cabral.
Kenny Rocha Santos and Laros Duarte will sit in front of the back four. Ryan Mendes, Jamiro Monteiro, and Jovane Cabral will supply the ammunition for striker Lisandro Livramento.
The Blue Sharks have winger Garry Rodrigues among their substitutes. The match will be controlled by Jordanian official Adham Mohammad Tumah Makhadmeh.