Cape Verde will step onto the global stage for the first time in their history on Monday, facing reigning European champions Spain in a Group H opener that marks both a milestone and a mountain to climb. The match at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium kicks off at 5pm UK time, free-to-air on ITV1 and STV, with pre-match coverage starting at 4.30pm.
Spain, who have underachieved at the World Cup since their 2010 triumph, enter the tournament boosted by the return of winger Lamine Yamal from a hamstring injury. Athletic Bilbao's Nico Williams has also fully recovered, though Víctor Muñoz remains a major doubt despite returning to training. For Cape Verde, the squad is remarkably healthy, with Dailon Livramento expected to spearhead their attack.
“Spain and Cape Verde meet for the first time in a World Cup opener, with Lamine Yamal fit after injury.”
The two nations have never met in any competitive or friendly fixture, making this encounter uncharted territory. BBC Radio 5 Live will provide live commentary from 4.30pm, while US viewers can watch on FOX Network (English) or Peacock and Telemundo (Spanish).