Spain has won the FIFA World Cup once, in 2010. Across 16 World Cup appearances, La Roja have played 67 matches, recording 31 wins, 17 draws, and 19 losses, scoring 108 goals and conceding 75. This history demonstrates their experience and competitiveness on football’s biggest stage.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Spain has a balanced squad of youth and experience, capable of challenging deep into the tournament.
Current Performance of Spain
In the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Spain finished top of their group. They played 10 matches, winning 8, drawing 2, and losing none, scoring 21 goals and conceding only 2, ending with a goal difference of +19.
Mikel Merino scored six goals and provided 2 assists, controlling the midfield and linking defence with attack effectively. Mikel Oyarzabal, contributing 6 goals and 4 assists, adds creativity and reliable finishing in wide and central positions. Ferran Torres and Pedri scored two goals each.
Both Lamine Yamal and Cubarsi performed well whenever Spain needed them, although the team lost the UEFA Nations League final to Portugal on penalties after the match ended 2-2 in regular time.
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Preview: Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
The combination of Yamal, Pino, Oyarzabal, and Morata allows Spain to attack both centrally and on the wings, creating multiple scoring threats. Players like Merino ensure the team can dominate possession while providing defensive cover. The side’s only conceded 2 goals in 10 matches reflects a disciplined backline capable of managing games efficiently.
Weaknesses / Key Concerns
The veteran player Dani Carvajal’s absence could weaken the defensive right flank and reduce attacking support from full-backs. Some experienced players may face fatigue during a long tournament, making rotation and fitness management essential. Lamine Yamal and Yeremy Pino are highly talented, but their ability to perform consistently under World Cup pressure remains to be tested.
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What to Expect from La Liga Stars
Spain’s squad relies heavily on top players from Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atlético Madrid, and Athletic Club. Their recent club form reflects their readiness for international competition:
- Real Madrid: Thibaut Courtois provides a world-class presence in goal, Rodrygo adds pace and finishing in attack, and Marcos Llorente contributes energy, defensive work, and attacking support from midfield.
- Barcelona: Pedri and Gavi control the midfield with creativity, vision, and passing accuracy, while Lamine Yamal brings youthful dynamism, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability.
- Atlético Madrid: Álvaro Morata and Yannick Carrasco provide physicality, experience, and clinical finishing, particularly useful in tight matches against strong opponents.
- Athletic Club: Mikel Oyarzabal combines a high work rate with precise finishing from wide positions, creating space and scoring opportunities.
Collectively, these players bring a mix of tactical intelligence, attacking firepower, and defensive reliability. Their performances at top La Liga clubs indicate they are in good form and ready to translate club success into the national team setup.
Conclusion
In the last 31 matches, Spain remained unbeaten, showcasing remarkable consistency. The world number one side will aim to dominate the FIFA World Cup 2026 with the likes of Álvaro Morata, Cubarsi, Mikel Merino, Lamine Yamal, Martín Zubimendi, Mikel Oyarzabal, Iñaki Williams, and other emerging stars. This highlights the incredible depth this La Roja squad possesses. It will be exciting to see if this generation can emulate the legacy of legends such as Sergio Ramos, Iker Casillas, Andrés Iniesta, Xavi Hernández, Gerard Piqué, and others who brought Spain glory in the past.
FAQs
How did Spain perform in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers?
Spain finished top of their group with 8 wins, 2 draws, and 0 losses, scoring 21 goals and conceding 2.
Who are Spain’s key players for the 2026 World Cup?
Key players include Álvaro Morata, Mikel Merino, Mikel Oyarzabal, Lamine Yamal, and Cubarsi.
What are Spain’s main strengths in the 2026 squad?
Spain excels in midfield control, possession dominance, versatile attack, and a disciplined defensive line.
Are there any concerns about Spain’s World Cup squad?
Potential weaknesses include veteran fatigue, Dani Carvajal’s absence, and the consistency of young talents under pressure.
Which La Liga clubs contribute the most players to Spain’s squad?
Top contributors are Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atlético Madrid, and Athletic Club, bringing tactical intelligence and attacking firepower.
