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Saudi Arabia has been drawn in one of the most intriguing groups at the FIFA World Cup 2026, with Georgios Donis’ side set to face reigning European champion Spain, two-time World Cup winner Uruguay and tournament debutant Cape Verde in Group H.

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The Green Falcons begin their campaign against Uruguay in Miami on June 15 [kick-off at 01:00 KSA time on June 16] before facing Spain in Atlanta on June 21. The final group-stage match comes against Cape Verde in Houston on June 27, with the top two teams advancing automatically to the Round of 32 and several third-placed teams also progressing under the tournament’s expanded format.

While Spain enter the competition among the favorites to lift the trophy, Saudi Arabia will believe it can compete with both Uruguay and Cape Verde as the Green Falcons seek a first appearance in the knockout stage since reaching the Round of 16 at USA 1994.

Spain

Coach: Luis de la Fuente - The former Spain youth-team boss has overseen a remarkable period of success since taking charge of the senior national team, guiding La Roja to UEFA Nations League glory in 2023 and the UEFA European Championship title in 2024.

Star player: Lamine Yamal - Still only 18, Yamal has already established himself as one of the world’s most exciting footballers. The Barcelona winger combines creativity, pace and goalscoring and is a player capable of leading Spain for the next decade.

FIFA ranking: No. 2

What to expect: Spain qualified comfortably from the European section, continuing the consistency that has made it one of the strongest international teams of the modern era. De La Fuente’s side arrives in North America with a squad packed with talent across every position and is among the leading contenders to win the tournament.

The 2026 tournament will be Spain’s 17th World Cup appearance and a 13th in succession. The nation’s greatest triumph came in South Africa in 2010, when Andres Iniesta’s extra-time goal secured a 1-0 victory over the Netherlands in the final. This time around, Spain represents the toughest challenge for Saudi Arabia in Group H. Its ability to dominate possession and control matches has frustrated opponents for decades, while the emergence of players such as Yamal, Pedri and Nico Williams has added a new level of attacking threat. Anything the Green Falcons can take from this fixture would rank among the biggest results in recent Saudi football history.

Uruguay

Coach: Marcelo Bielsa - One of football’s most respected and influential coaches, Bielsa has transformed Uruguay into one of South America’s most aggressive and entertaining teams.

Star player: Federico Valverde - The Real Madrid midfielder is the heartbeat of this Uruguay side. Equally comfortable breaking up attacks, driving forward with the ball or contributing goals, Valverde’s leadership is vital for club and country.

FIFA ranking: No. 16

What to expect: Uruguay emerged from the demanding CONMEBOL qualification campaign, finishing in fourth place with highlights including a 2-0 victory over Brazil in Montevideo and a 2-0 win away to world champion Argentina. It is a fifth consecutive World Cup appearance for Uruguay, the winner of the inaugural World Cup in 1930. La Celeste added a second title in 1950 when they stunned host Brazil and although a third world title has proved elusive, Uruguay has remained competitive on the biggest stage – reaching the semi-finals in 2010 and quarter-finals in 2018.

Saudi Arabia has previous World Cup experience against Uruguay, losing 1-0 during the group stage in Russia in 2018. While Bielsa’s team will begin as favorite once again, the Green Falcons may view this match as an opportunity to claim a result against one of the group’s leading nations.

Cape Verde

Coach: Bubista (Pedro Brito) - The former Cape Verde international has overseen the most successful period in the nation’s football history. Under his leadership, the Blue Sharks reached a first FIFA World Cup and strengthened their reputation in Africa.

Star player: Ryan Mendes - The veteran forward has represented the national team for more than a decade, playing a central role in the country’s rise and continuing to provide experience, creativity and goals.

FIFA ranking: No. 67

What to expect: Cape Verde was one of the surprise packages of African qualifying, building on strong performances at recent Africa Cup of Nations tournaments to secure a historic debut World Cup. The team’s success has been built on organization, discipline and collective strength rather than individual stars. Many members of the squad play professionally across Europe, helping the team compete consistently against more established African powers.

With a population of around 600,000 people, Cape Verde is one of the smallest nations ever to qualify for football’s biggest tournament. But while it lacks the World Cup pedigree of Spain or Uruguay, the Blue Sharks arrive in North America with momentum and confidence. For Saudi Arabia, this fixture could prove decisive. Many observers expect Spain to top the group, leaving Uruguay, Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde competing for the remaining qualification places. Victory against the African debutants will likely be crucial for the Green Falcons to advance.

Read more: Meet the Saudi Pro League stars playing at the FIFA World Cup 2026