Spain-Saudi Arabia 21/06/2026: lineups and latest news

Spain and Saudi Arabia meet on Sunday, 21 June 2026 in the second round of Group H at the World Cup. The match is scheduled at Atlanta Stadium, with kick-off at 18:00 in Italy.

The game arrives at a sensitive point for both sides. Spain opened the tournament with a 0-0 draw against Cape Verde, a result that left some frustration after a match in which possession did not turn into enough clear chances. Saudi Arabia also started with a draw, 1-1 against Uruguay, leaving the group wide open with all four teams on one point.

La Roja have returned to Atlanta after working in Chattanooga, and Luis de la Fuente needs his team to find more edge in the final third. Pau Cubarsi said before the match that Spain must raise their level after the opener and approach the game with full focus.

Saudi Arabia arrive with confidence after taking a point from a high-profile opponent. Georgios Donis' side showed organisation and resilience against Uruguay, with Salem Al-Dawsari and Feras Al-Brikan among the key attacking references.

The fixture carries real weight for both teams: a win would move either side closer to the knockout phase, while another draw would keep everything alive before the final matchday. Spain need to unlock their tournament; Saudi Arabia want to prove they can compete with one of the group's favourites.

Brazilian referee Raphael Claus has been appointed for the match. The tactical rhythm will be one of the main themes: Spain are expected to look for control and width, while Saudi Arabia may rely on compact defending and quick transitions.