Spain take on Uruguay knowing a draw would see them through as Group H winners and set up a potential round-of-32 tie with Austria or Algeria.
The Euro 2024 winners started their tournament off with a shock 0-0 draw with debutants Cape Verde, who owed their clean sheet to 40-year-old ‘keeper Vozinha.
Next up was Saudi Arabia, who La Roja turned the style on against in a 4-0 victory. Mikel Oyarzabal scored twice, while Lamine Yamal opened the scoring on his first tournament start.
Now, they know a win or draw against two-time champions Uruguay would seal their spot as group winners, where they would face the runners-up in Argentina’s group, either Austria or Algeria (who play each other on Sunday) on Tuesday, July 7 in Los Angeles.
Lose, and Spain may have to play Lionel Messi & co on July 7 on the 39-year-old’s home patch, Miami.
So, who has Luis de la Fuente pick to start this important clash?
Spain boss de la Fuente prefers a 4-3-3 formation, his only real changes being whether one of the midfield trio occupies a more advanced role.
Against, Uruguay it would appear Arsenal’s Mikel Merino has been handed that role as he is one of two changes from the win over Saudi Arabia. He replaces Dani Olmo to join captain Rodri and Pedri.
Marcos Llorente is restored at right-back which means Tottenham’s Pedro Porro drops down to the bench. Nico Williams is not ready to start following his injury issues and new Liverpool signing Victor Munoz remains unavailable.
Confirmed team news
Spain XI: Simon; Llorente, Laporte, Cubarsi, Cucurella; Rodri, Pedri, Merino; Yamal, Oyarzabal, Baena
Injured: Munoz
Time and date: 1am BST on Saturday, June 27, 2026
How to watch: ITV
Venue: Guadalajara Stadium
