Spain World Cup 2026 Hopes Echo 2010 Triumph Under De La Fuente

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente believes the national team are prepared to challenge for the 2026 World Cup title, building on the Euro 2024 triumph and an unbeaten competitive run that now stretches to 31 matches, with 25 wins and six draws recorded.

De La Fuente acknowledged the scale of the challenge but stressed confidence in the squad’s growth and mentality. "We still have to try to win a World Cup, but I think we're ready for it," said De La Fuente. "When people tell me things about that generation [2010], they can be applied to the present day."

Spain are aiming to become only the fourth team to hold the European Championship and World Cup trophies at the same time. That achievement has previously been managed by West Germany, France, and Spain, who completed their own sequence between 2008 and 2012.

West Germany lifted Euro 1972 before winning the 1974 World Cup, while France combined the 1998 World Cup with Euro 2000 success. Spain’s earlier golden spell featured Euro 2008, the 2010 World Cup, and Euro 2012, capped by Andres Iniesta’s extra-time winner against the Netherlands in the 2010 final.

Spain open their World Cup campaign on 15 June against Cape Verde in Group H. De La Fuente’s side will then meet Saudi Arabia and Uruguay in the same group, creating a varied test against African, Asian, and South American opposition during the opening phase.

Before the tournament starts, La Roja will complete two warm-up matches. Spain are scheduled to face Iraq on Thursday, then play Peru on Tuesday. These fixtures offer final competitive minutes for the squad and chances to refine tactical details before travelling to the World Cup.

The squad completed the final training sessions at their usual base before departure. That preparation period included a farewell mood at the national team facility, reflected in the federation’s post on social media following the last workout on home soil.

Spain World Cup contenders and De La Fuente’s AI view

De La Fuente also reflected on technology and analysis as tournament discussion increased. "AI is the future and I think it's fantastic, but I trust people more. I value what professionals or the media say more." The coach underlined the importance of human judgement when assessing football.

The Spain boss expects a highly competitive event with several leading nations targeting the trophy. "In my opinion, it's a historic World Cup because there are many teams with a chance: France, England, Argentina, Brazil, Morocco, Spain, Portugal, Senegal. It will be a very difficult World Cup, and we feel capable of competing for it."

Spain World Cup squad fitness and Lamine Yamal update

One of Spain’s main concerns has been the fitness of Lamine Yamal after a hamstring injury in April. The Barcelona winger is not involved against Iraq but is expected to be available for the opening match against Cape Verde, provided recovery continues as planned.

De La Fuente explained the situation around the teenager’s return. "We're confident Lamine will be ready by the 15th, but I don't know for sure," added De La Fuente. "If things continue as they are, he might be ready then, but it doesn't guarantee he'll have to play. We'll assess the situation as it unfolds."

With a long unbeaten sequence, recent Euro 2024 success, and memories of the 2010 victory, Spain approach the World Cup with measured optimism. De La Fuente recognises strong rivals across every continent, yet considers the squad mature enough to compete seriously for another global title.