European champions Spain are widely considered favorites to win the World Cup title in 2026, following a dominant two-year period where they have made international football look like an easy task. The question for the other 47 teams is clear: who can stop Luis de la Fuente's red machine?
Spain's Dominance Since Euro 2024
Spain arrives at the tournament with a record fourth continental title, a dazzling collective identity, and a rare combination of style and steel. Their Euro 2024 triumph in Germany was not built on one individual but on a team effort. Spain won every match, playing fast, direct, and fearless football, often finding answers from the bench when needed.
The final against England showcased their depth. Substitute Mikel Oyarzabal became the 10th Spain player to score at Euro 2024, netting the 86th-minute winner in a 2-1 victory. Spain's 15 goals in the tournament were the most by any team at a European Championship.
Luis de la Fuente's Impact
At the center of Spain's success is coach Luis de la Fuente, who was once mocked as "Luis de la Who?" after his appointment in 2023. Having worked in Spain's youth system for over a decade, he has built a cohesive squad. Many players, including Rodri, Mikel Merino, and Fabian Ruiz, were part of his Under-19 and Under-21 successes.
Lamine Yamal's Rise and Injury Concerns
No player has flourished more than Lamine Yamal. The Barcelona winger burst onto the scene at 16 during Euro 2024 and had a remarkable 2024-25 season, helping Barca win a LaLiga-Copa del Rey double and finishing close to Ousmane Dembele in the Ballon d'Or voting. This season, he was Barcelona's MVP in their successful LaLiga title defense. However, at 18, Yamal has dealt with a groin problem and is recovering from a serious hamstring injury sustained in late April, leaving Spain anxiously awaiting his peak condition for the World Cup.
Other Injury Setbacks
De la Fuente faces other injury issues. Merino has been sidelined with a broken foot, Fermin Lopez will miss the tournament with a similar fracture, and Nico Williams has struggled with groin and hamstring problems. Despite these setbacks, Spain's strength lies in continuity through disruption. They maintain their shape, tempo, and intensity regardless of who plays, retaining their essence without a traditional number nine and with attacking threats across the pitch.
Recent Form and World Cup Prospects
Spain's only recent setback was a shootout loss to Portugal in last year's Nations League final. Otherwise, De la Fuente's team has 28 wins, three draws, and two defeats in 33 matches. The World Cup will test their rhythm against heat, travel, injuries, and expectations in Group H against Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay. For now, Spain look less like hopefuls and more like the team everyone else must chase.
