Spain begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against Cape Verde at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Monday 15 June 2026. The Group H opener pits the reigning European champions against a Cape Verde side making their first-ever World Cup appearance.
What is the FIFA World Cup 2026?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the 23rd edition of the men’s world championship and the first co-hosted by three nations: the United States, Canada and Mexico. It is the first tournament to feature an expanded 48-team format, with 12 groups of four and a new Round of 32. Spain enter the tournament as second in the FIFA world rankings behind France.
When is Spain vs Cape Verde?
Kick-off is at 11:00 local time (EDT) on Monday 15 June 2026. That is 17:00 CEST in Spain, 16:00 BST in the United Kingdom, and 15:00 local time in Praia, Cape Verde.
Where is Spain vs Cape Verde being played?
The match is at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, home to the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and MLS’s Atlanta United. The stadium has a retractable roof, a capacity of around 71,000, and will host eight matches during the tournament. A natural grass surface will be installed over the artificial pitch.
Key Contenders
Spain, ranked second in the world, come in as reigning European champions after winning Euro 2024 under head coach Luis de la Fuente. The squad is built around Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal, now one of the most talked-about players in world football, Real Madrid midfielder Fede Valverde (Spanish-eligible), Manchester City midfielder Rodri and Barcelona forward Ferran Torres. Spain won their only World Cup title in South Africa 2010 and are among the favourites to win in North America.
Cape Verde qualified for a first World Cup in their history, advancing through the CAF route under head coach Pedro Brito (Bubista). The Blue Sharks are built around captain Ryan Mendes, Saint-Etienne midfielder Laros Duarte and defender Stopira. The tiny island nation, population around 600,000, are the fourth-smallest nation ever to reach a men’s World Cup.
How to Watch Spain vs Cape Verde
In the United Kingdom, the match is free-to-air on BBC or ITV with streaming on BBC iPlayer and ITVX. In Spain, RTVE (La 1 or Teledeporte) carries the broadcast free-to-air. In the United States, FOX shows the English-language coverage while Telemundo and Peacock handle Spanish. Cape Verdean viewers can watch on TCV. FIFA+ provides streaming in selected markets.
History and Records
Spain and Cape Verde have never met in senior international football. Spain are one-time world champions (2010) and three-time European champions (2008, 2012, 2024). Cape Verde’s only previous major tournament experience came at the Africa Cup of Nations, where they reached the quarter-finals in 2013.
Tickets and Attendance
Tickets are sold via FIFA’s official ticketing portal at fifa.com/tickets. Spain matches have been among the most in-demand of the European nations. Hospitality packages remain available through On Location.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Spain vs Cape Verde kick off?
At 11:00 ET on Monday 15 June 2026, which is 16:00 BST and 17:00 CEST.
Where is Spain vs Cape Verde being held?
At Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.
How can I watch Spain vs Cape Verde?
BBC or ITV in the UK, RTVE in Spain, FOX and Telemundo in the US, TCV in Cape Verde.
Is this Cape Verde’s first World Cup?
Yes. Cape Verde have never previously qualified for a FIFA World Cup.