Lamine Yamal Starts for Spain vs Saudi Arabia in World Cup 2026 Qualifier
Lamine Yamal Starts for Spain vs Saudi Arabia

Lamine Yamal has been named in Spain's starting lineup for their World Cup 2026 qualifier against Saudi Arabia, with manager Luis de la Fuente making four changes to the side that drew 1-1 with Cape Verde. Pedro Porro is among the new faces, slotting in at right-back.

Spain's Starting XI

Spain lines up in a 4-2-3-1 formation: Unai Simón in goal; a defense of Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte, and Marc Cucurella; a midfield double pivot of Pedri and Rodri; an attacking trio of Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, and Álex Baena; and Mikel Oyarzabal leading the line.

Saudi Arabia's Lineup

Saudi Arabia, under coach Hervé Renard, fields a 5-3-2 shape: goalkeeper Mohammed al-Owais; defenders Saud Abdulhamid, Ali al-Amri, Hassan al-Tambakti, Ahmed Lajami, and Nasser al-Harbi; midfielders Nasser al-Dawsari, Ali Alkhaibari, and Musab al-Juwayr; and forwards Firas al-Buraikan and Salem al-Dawsari.

Wide Pickt banner — collaborative shopping lists app for Telegram, phone mockup with grocery list

Match Context

Spain are seeking a win after a disappointing draw with Cape Verde in their previous qualifier. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, are looking to build momentum in their campaign. The match is part of the CONCACAF-hosted World Cup 2026 qualifiers, with both teams aiming for a spot in the expanded 48-team tournament.

You can join John Brewin for all the buildup. That’s all from me today – thanks for reading and enjoy the football.

Pickt after-article banner — collaborative shopping lists app with family illustration