Spain open Group H against Cape Verde in Atlanta, a match that puts the reigning European champions against a side competing in their first World Cup. The contrast in pedigree is stark, but Cape Verde’s footballing quality deserves serious respect.

Spain’s World Cup record is one of the most dramatic stories in football history. Years of brilliant failure gave way to absolute dominance between 2008 and 2012, when La Roja won two European Championships sandwiched around the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, where they defeated the Netherlands 1-0 in the final. That generation built around tiki-taka possession football redefined what national team football could look like. Their subsequent decline and rebuilding produced a fresh, exciting squad that won Euro 2024 with a fluid, attacking style that felt like a genuine evolution.

Cape Verde are making history simply by being here. The archipelago nation off the West African coast qualified through African pathways and has been a competitive CAF presence for years. Several of their players have experience in European leagues, particularly in Portugal, given the linguistic and cultural ties between the nations. Cape Verde’s football culture is vibrant and deeply embedded in the island communities.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta is one of the most architecturally impressive venues in North America. The retractable roof and distinctive exterior design make it immediately recognisable. Atlanta has a significant Latin American community, and Spanish-speaking fans will make their presence felt here.

Spain are tournament favourites on paper, but Cape Verde will not travel to Atlanta to be passive. They will press, they will compete, and they will create moments. The opening match of Group H sets the tone for everything that follows.