De la Fuente gives all-clear on Yamal – but starting lineup spot against Cape Verde still open

All-clear from Atlanta

De la Fuente also warned against underestimating the opponent from Cape Verde. "Tactically, they are very well structured, the players are very fast and physically strong," said de la Fuente. The island nation from West Africa is considered an underdog in the group stage but earns the respect of the Spanish coach. "They could become one of the surprise teams," the 64-year-old predicted.

"It will be a fight, even if we win. If you think it will be an easy game, you are wrong," de la Fuente stressed with a view to the first group match. As one of the top favorites for the title, Spain belongs to the narrow circle of contenders for the World Cup trophy. Before the tournament kicked off, the coach clearly focused on defensive solidity and the opponent's speed.

Warning about Cape Verde

In addition to the Yamal personnel situation, Spanish fans are also occupied with the question of whether Nico Williams will start. The winger, alongside Yamal, counts among the greatest offensive weapons of the "Furia Roja." Both players had been considered possible starting candidates for the opening match in recent weeks. De la Fuente did not want to give away concrete lineups, however, and pointed to the final training session before kickoff.

For Spain, the clash with Cape Verde is the first appearance at the World Cup finals. The team will also face other opponents in the group stage, including Mexico. A win in the opener would see de la Fuente's team take an important step toward the round of 16. A defeat, on the other hand, would immediately spark discussions about the favorite's form.

The match will be broadcast live by ServusTV. The Spanish team arrives with great expectations after having drawn attention to itself in recent years with strong performances at international tournaments. With Yamal fit and injury-free in the squad, de la Fuente considers his team well-equipped.

Open personnel questions

De la Fuente emphasized that the final decision on Yamal's deployment would only be made shortly before the match. "We will see how he feels," said the coach. The medical department of the Spanish delegation had intensively looked after the 18-year-old in recent days after the injury had caused unrest.

Cape Verde, meanwhile, is playing its very first World Cup match and goes into the game as a clear underdog. The team from the West African island nation has qualified for a World Cup finals for the first time and wants to spring a surprise against Spain. De la Fuente urgently warned against complacency.

Overall, the Spanish coach appears confident but also respectful toward the opponent ahead of the tournament opener. The blend of talent, experience, and speed makes Spain a title contender, according to de la Fuente. Fans in Spain and around the world will be watching kickoff eagerly on Monday evening.