World Cup 2026: Spain vs Cape Verde — Ruiz and Cabral start
Spain begin their Group H campaign at the World Cup 2026 against Cape Verde in Atlanta. Fabian Ruiz, Jovane Cabral and Dailon Livramento among the first 11.
Spain prepare for their opening Group H game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Cape Verde in Atlanta, and the European champions' starting 11 includes Fabian Ruiz.
Former Napoli midfielder Fabian Ruiz has been deployed in Spain's midfield as the team kicks off their tournament campaign.
<figure style="margin:2rem 0;overflow:hidden;border:1px solid #e2e2e2;background:#f9f9f9"><img src="https://s.yimg.com/lo/mysterio/api/c2418f6549bc9d6e576cc5c233b8a343eb43c2cf028b880788acc52158083efd/lightyear_networkapi/resizefill_w1200;quality_80;format_webp/https:%2F%2Fmedia.zenfs.com%2Fen%2Ffootball_italia_articles_132%2F9a933be02309a97c3093954f545722c7" alt="Image" style="width:100%;height:auto;object-fit:contain" loading="lazy" /></figure>On the other side, Cape Verde included Jovane Cabral in the starting lineup. The former Lazio and Salernitana winger will provide a familiar face for Serie A watchers as the Blue Sharks look to spring a surprise against one of the tournament favourites.
Hellas Verona forward Dailon Livramento also started for Cape Verde, after a season enlisted at Casa Pia in Portugal.
There is no other change in the confirmed names report — the focus now is on the run of the game and whether Cape Verde can provide a challenge to mighty Spain in their opening match in Atlanta.
