Spain starting XI vs Cape Verde: who is Luis De la Fuente going with for the 2026 World Cup opener?

The wait is over. European champions Spain begin their bid for World Cup 2026 glory on Monday against Cape Verde, and Luis de la Fuente has made a bold call by leaving two of his biggest stars on the bench.

Is Lamine Yamal playing for Spain against Cape Verde?

Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams both start the tournament as substitutes, with Spain overwhelming favorites heading into their Group F opener. Rather than throwing all of his attacking firepower onto the pitch from the start, De la Fuente goes with the majority of the lineup that featured in the recent warm-up win over Peru in Puebla.

Despite fierce competition from Joan García, the reigning Zamora Trophy winner in LaLiga, and Premier League Golden Glove recipient David Raya, De la Fuente keeps faith with Unai Simón as first-choice goalkeeper. The Athletic Club goalkeeper remains the man who helped lead Spain to European Championship success and retains the No. 1 shirt.

Spain’s defense features two notable changes from the side that conquered Europe. Dani Carvajal’s injury-hit year has opened the door for Marcos Llorente, who arrives after an outstanding Champions League campaign at right back. Aymeric Laporte and Marc Cucurella remain key pillars of the back line, while teenage sensation Pau Cubarsí is expected to slot into central defense.

The midfield virtually picks itself. Rodri, Fabián Ruiz and Pedri offer the balance, control and experience that have become the foundation of this Spain team.

What is Spain’s opening attacking formation?

Further forward, De la Fuente has unveiled a front three rarely seen together. Mikel Oyarzabal continues as the side’s reference point in attack after enhancing his importance during Spain’s last major tournament triumph. Ferran Torres, fresh from one of the strongest seasons of his career, operates on one flank, while Gavi getting the nod ahead of Álex Baena on the other after resuming full fitness.

Spain enter the tournament carrying the weight of expectation, but also with a squad packed with depth. With Yamal and Williams beginning on the bench, De la Fuente will know he has two game-changing options ready to be unleashed when needed. And tougher tests lie ahead.

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