Group H leaders could emerge from Atlanta tonight as Spain look to respond from a frustrating opening result when they take on a confident Saudi Arabia side in their second match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Reigning European champions Spain were among the biggest disappointments of the opening round after being held to a goalless draw by World Cup debutants Cape Verde.
Despite dominating possession with 74%, La Roja failed to find a breakthrough, extending their winless run at the World Cup to four matches (D3, L1).
The result marked Spain’s longest drought without a victory in the competition since their famous 2010 triumph, although manager Luis de la Fuente remains calm, with his side unbeaten in their last 11 matches overall since June 2025 (W7, D4).
Spain will be eager to rediscover their attacking spark, particularly after failing to score with their last 49 shots at World Cup finals.
A victory here would also prevent them from going five consecutive World Cup matches without a win for the first time in their history.
Standing in their way are Saudi Arabia, who produced another impressive World Cup performance by earning a 1-1 draw against Uruguay.
The Green Falcons frustrated the South American opponents for long periods and were only denied a famous victory after conceding an 80th-minute equaliser.
Saudi Arabia are now targeting an unbeaten start across their opening two matches at a World Cup for the first time, a feat that would significantly boost their hopes of reaching the knockout stages for the first time since 1994.
Their confidence will be fuelled by memories of their stunning 2-1 victory over eventual champions Argentina in 2022, but history is against them against European opposition, having lost ten of their last 11 World Cup matches against UEFA nations.
Spain have dominated this fixture historically, winning all three previous meetings, including a 1-0 victory in the 2006 World Cup group stage.
Lamine Yamal is expected to be handed his first World Cup start after making an instant impact against Cape Verde, completing more dribbles than any other Spanish player despite playing only 19 minutes.
Saudi Arabia goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais will again be key after making nine saves against Uruguay.
Spain could welcome back Nico Williams after his brief appearance off the bench in the opener, while Saudi Arabia have no fresh injury concerns.
Kick-off is set for tonight at 7:00 pm.
