The 2026 World Cup Kicks Off — Where Spain Stands and Its Full Squad and Schedule

The 2026 FIFA World Cup began on 11 June. For the first time in history, the tournament is being held in three countries at once (the USA, Mexico, and Canada) and, also for the first time, brings together 48 national teams. A total of 104 matches will be played, with the final scheduled for 19 July in New Jersey.

Spain is among the main contenders for the title. In 2024, the national team beat England 2–1 at Euro 2024.

In the group stage, Spain will play in Group H alongside Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, and Cape Verde. Uruguay is taking part in its 15th World Cup. The Uruguayans have never beaten Spain. Saudi Arabia is taking part in the tournament for the seventh time. Cape Verde is making its debut at the World Cup.

Spain's match schedule

On 15 June at 6:00 PM Spanish time, Spain plays against Cape Verde at the stadium in Atlanta. On 21 June at 6:00 PM — Spain against Saudi Arabia, Atlanta. On 27 June at 2:00 AM — Uruguay against Spain, at the stadium in Guadalajara.

The La Cotorra team has put together an up-to-date guide to bars in Valencia where you can watch the 2026 World Cup matches. The bars are divided into categories — from spacious sports bars with dozens of screens to "locals only" spots.

Spain's squad

Luis de la Fuente has called up 26 players.

• goalkeepers: David Raya (Arsenal), Joan García (Barcelona), Unai Simón (Athletic);

• defenders: Marc Pubill (Atlético), Alejandro Grimaldo (Bayer), Eric García (Barcelona), Marcos Llorente (Atlético), Pedro Porro (Tottenham), Aymeric Laporte (Athletic), Pau Cubarsí (Barcelona), Marc Cucurella (Chelsea);

• midfielders: Mikel Merino (Arsenal), Fabián Ruiz (Paris Saint-Germain), Gavi (Barcelona), Álex Baena (Atlético), Rodri (Manchester City), Martín Zubimendi (Arsenal), Pedri (Barcelona);

• forwards: Ferran Torres (Barcelona), Dani Olmo (Barcelona), Yeremy Pino (Crystal Palace), Nico Williams (Athletic), Lamine Yamal (Barcelona), Mikel Oyarzabal (Real Sociedad), Víctor Muñoz (Osasuna), Borja Iglesias (Celta).

FIFA ranking

On the day the tournament started, FIFA published its updated ranking of national teams. Spain is in second place with 1,874.71 points — just three points behind leaders Argentina (1,877.27). The reigning world champions round out the top three together with France (1,870.70).

The top 10 of the FIFA ranking at the start of the 2026 World Cup:

1. Argentina — 1,877.27

2. Spain — 1,874.71

3. France — 1,870.70

4. England — 1,828.02

5. Portugal — 1,767.85

6. Brazil — 1,765.86

7. Morocco — 1,755.10

8. Netherlands — 1,753.57

9. Belgium — 1,742.24

10. Germany — 1,742.24