Spain’s World Cup 2026 campaign hit a stumbling block with a 1-1 draw against Cabo Verde in their opening group game, but manager Mikel Merino insisted the setback does not signal deeper problems and pointed to a clear path forward.
The result leaves Spain tied with Saudi Arabia on three points after two matches, with the next fixture against the Saudis on Tuesday offering a chance to regain momentum. Merino’s post-match press conference focused on maintaining composure, with a message that echoed the team’s collective mindset: “The best message we can give now is a decisive victory against Saudi Arabia.”
Why the Draw Stings in a Tight Group
Spain’s opening loss to Costa Rica (0-1) followed by this draw means they enter the final group stage with zero wins and will need to navigate a group where every point counts. The top two teams advance, and with Saudi Arabia already winning their opener, Spain cannot afford further missteps. According to the team’s statement, Merino described the squad’s current form as “very similar to the one that reached the Euro 2024 final”, but acknowledged the need for sharper execution.
Cabo Verde, ranked 62nd in FIFA’s latest rankings, had never beaten a top-10 team before this match. Their equalizer came in the 89th minute, forcing Spain into a defensive posture that left them exposed in the final minutes. The draw also means Spain will finish the group stage with a record of one draw and two losses if they fail to beat Saudi Arabia.
Merino’s Calm Assessment: “No Panic”
Merino rejected any suggestion of crisis, framing the result as a “normal part of a tournament” rather than a sign of deeper issues. “No one has died; let’s not spread panic,” he said, adding that the team’s structure remains intact. His emphasis on “humility and optimism” reflected a tactical approach focused on the next match rather than dwelling on the past two results.
When asked about the team’s current state, Merino compared them directly to the Euro 2024 squad that reached the final: “I see the team very similar to the one that played in Germany. They are a group that can still deliver big results.” However, he also noted the need for “more efficiency in front of goal,” a clear reference to Spain’s struggles to break down defenses in both matches.
What Happens Next: Saudi Arabia Showdown
Spain’s next match against Saudi Arabia (Tuesday, 12:30 CET) will be decisive. A win would put them in second place in Group A, just one point behind Costa Rica, while a draw would leave them in a precarious position. According to the team’s schedule, the final group game against Japan (June 25) will determine whether Spain advances as one of the top two in the group.
Merino’s strategy appears to hinge on regaining confidence quickly. “We have to approach this with the same intensity as the first game,” he said, hinting at a return to the high-pressure football that defined Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign. The manager also ruled out any major tactical overhauls, stating that the team’s structure remains sound.
Key Facts
- Current Standings (Group A): Costa Rica (3 pts), Saudi Arabia (3), Spain (1), Cabo Verde (1).
- Spain’s Next Match: Saudi Arabia, June 17, 12:30 CET.
- Merino’s Message: “The best message is a clear victory against Saudi Arabia.”
- Cabo Verde’s Historic Result: First time beating a top-10 FIFA-ranked team.
- Spain’s Goal Scoring: 0 goals in two matches (Costa Rica and Cabo Verde).
With the pressure mounting, Spain’s ability to capitalize on their attacking talent will be on full display against Saudi Arabia. Merino’s insistence on staying calm suggests he believes the team’s foundation is strong enough to overcome this early hiccup.
