World Cup 2026: Spain targets first win against Saudi Arabia in Group H
After the short 0-0 against Cape Verde, Spain has to recover against Saudi Arabia who also came from a draw (1-1) against Uruguay in the 2026 World Cup.
Spain will be looking for a first win at the 2026 World Cup when they resume their Group H campaign against Saudi Arabia on Sunday afternoon. La Roja is coming off a 0-0 draw against Cape Verde, while Saudi Arabia also picked up a point each in a 1-1 draw against Uruguay. The four teams in the group are tied on one point each, so the implications of this match are heavy for the hopes of making it to the Round of 32.
Spain Spain's first match against Cape Verde did not live up to expectations, where they struggled to dictate play and lacked creativity in the final third. Because of this, the pressure has intensified on one of the pre-tournament favorites to recover immediately. La Roja are aware that four points from the remaining two matches are likely to be enough to progress, but any slip-up will leave the final matchday in jeopardy.
Team news (Spain) The lack of 'spark' in the attack appeared, and the last-minute entry of Lamine Yamal—fresh from a hamstring issue—provided a solution. There is a good chance that the 18-year-old will start after getting his condition back. A change in the wingers is also expected: Nico Williams is likely to come in from the start, while Ferran Torres and Gavi could make way depending on the tactics Luis de la Fuente chooses for added speed and unpredictability up front. Spain have no new injury concerns, but Victor Munoz could remain unavailable with a hamstring, reducing option depth slightly.
Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia is brimming with confidence after holding favorites Uruguay to a 1-1 draw. They even took the lead through Abdulelah Al Amri's goal before equalizing in the end. With the race in Group H tight, any positive result against Spain will put the Green Falcons in a good position before facing Cape Verde in the final match. Historically, Saudi Arabia are yet to taste a win against Spain and lost 0-1 in their only World Cup meeting in 2006, but a solid display against Uruguay gives them the belief that they can keep up with the higher-ranked opposition.
Team news (Saudi Arabia) Coach Georgios Donis has a full list of players, so he has the freedom to choose the best combination. Defensive discipline was a mainstay in their opener, and Abdulelah Al Amri is expected to remain in the centre. Up front, captain Salem Al-Dawsari will remain the main threat on the flanks, while Firas Al-Buraikan will be expected to lead the attack. Saudi Arabia's plan relies on organization and a quick counter-attack to stop Spain's rhythm and attack when there is an opening.
Important things to remember - Spain's attack needs to shine after not scoring in the first match. - The possible start of Lamine Yamal and the entry of Nico Williams could bring back agility and creativity up front. - Saudi Arabia showed determination to stop Uruguay and confidence in its defensive structure. - All are equal on points in Group H so it will be a tough match for both sides. - History favors Spain, including their win against Saudi Arabia in the 2006 World Cup. - Saudi Arabia's squad is full, while Spain adjusts some tactical changes in attack.
Forecast Spain are under pressure to deliver a tighter and more organized attack, and Yamal's involvement from the start and added pace on the wings are expected to help. Saudi Arabia can complicate the game with a strong defense and quick counter-attack, but it will be a big challenge to maintain that for 90 minutes against the quality of La Roja. In the end, Spain is expected to get three points to solidify their place in Group H.
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