Spain Receive Fitness Boost as Yamal and Williams Set for World Cup Opener

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has confirmed that teenage sensation Lamine Yamal and winger Nico Williams are expected to be available for the team’s opening match of the 2026 World Cup against Cape Verde on June 15.

The update provides a major boost for the European champions as they prepare to begin their campaign in the tournament being hosted across Canada, Mexico and the United States.

Yamal, 18, and Athletic Bilbao forward Williams both missed the closing stages of the club season after suffering hamstring injuries. Their recovery has been closely monitored by Spain’s medical staff ahead of the World Cup.

De la Fuente said the pair, along with Victor Munoz, remained at the national team’s training base in the United States rather than travel to Mexico for Monday’s friendly against Peru.

“We regret that they are not here with us, but the medical and physical conditioning staff advised them to stay there,” De la Fuente said.

He added that all three players were making good progress and should be ready for Spain’s first World Cup match.

“All three should be available for the next match. They are progressing well in their recovery and are doing very well,” the coach said.

Spain enters the tournament among the leading contenders for the title after recent international success and a squad packed with experienced players and emerging talent. Much of the spotlight is expected to fall on Yamal, who has quickly established himself as one of football’s brightest young stars.

The Barcelona winger has enjoyed a rapid rise over the past two seasons and is widely viewed as a player capable of making a significant impact on the world stage.

Spain will begin its Group campaign against World Cup debutants Cape Verde in Atlanta before facing Saudi Arabia in a second match at the same venue.

The team will then conclude the group stage against Uruguay in Guadalajara, Mexico.

With key attacking players nearing full fitness, Spain will hope to start the tournament strongly as it aims to add another World Cup title to its international achievements. The expected return of Yamal and Williams provides De la Fuente with additional options in attack and strengthens Spain’s prospects heading into one of football’s biggest competitions.