World Cup 2026, Group H, Spain face a tough start 🇪🇸🇺🇾🇸🇦🇨🇻 | OneFootball

A real group of death is coming! Spain heads into this 2026 World Cup with the label of clear title favorite, but fate has given them a brutal wink: La Roja has been drawn into Group H, the very same section where it began its road to the throne in South Africa 2010.

In a massive tournament with 48 teams and no room for error, this group brings us a brutal cultural and footballing clash between European pedigree, South American grit, and the excitement of two projects that are growing fast.

Which players should you keep an eye on?

📸 Julian Finney - 2026 Getty Images

🇪🇸 Lamine Yamal. The Barcelona gem arrives established as La Roja’s most game-changing player; his dribbling and electric fearlessness will be Spain’s main weapon for breaking down any compact defense.

🇺🇾 Federico Valverde. Real Madrid’s engine leads Uruguay’s fighting spirit under Bielsa; his box-to-box physical presence, added to his thunderous long-range shot, makes him the absolute boss of midfield.

🇸🇦 Salem Al-Dawsari. The hero who stunned Argentina in 2022 remains the symbol of magic and experience in a revamped squad looking to base its game on speed and tactical discipline.

🇨🇻 Ryan Mendes. The historic captain will lead the “Blue Sharks” in their first-ever World Cup appearance, bringing the attacking thrust and veteran presence needed to try to pull off the tournament’s big surprise.

Which absences stand out the most?

📸 Alex Caparros - 2026 Getty Images

Last-minute decisions have hit Spain hard, as they will be without young center-back Dean Huijsen due to a technical decision. On top of that, La Roja loses two key pieces from the EURO 2024-winning side: charismatic defensive leader Dani Carvajal and goalkeeper Álex Remiro, hugely significant absences that will force Luis de la Fuente to reshape a structure that is vital for the tournament.

Which match can’t I miss?

Without a doubt, Uruguay vs Spain on June 26 in Guadalajara. It’s not just a historic clash, but the definitive showdown for top spot: La Roja’s possession-and-passing game against Bielsa’s Celeste and its suffocating intensity and vertical tempo. Football of the very highest quality.

Who are the favorites to go through?

Spain and Uruguay are the clear favorites to advance directly to the round of 16 because of their pedigree and standing on the international stage. However, with the new format, Saudi Arabia will battle Cape Verde for that third spot, hoping to snatch a historic qualification.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

📸 Alex Caparros - 2026 Getty Images