Spain Faces a Tough Saudi Challenge at World Cup 2026

Spain's coach warns of a tough Saudi test

Luis de la Fuente, Spain's head coach, stressed that facing Saudi Arabia at the 2026 World Cup won't be easy, noting that the "Green" team showed solid form against Argentina in the previous edition.

World Cup 2026 draw and Group 8

The draw in Washington, D.C., placed Saudi Arabia in Group 8 alongside Spain, Uruguay, and Cape Verde.

In remarks to the press, De la Fuente said: "Nothing will be easy for us, we must play with more calm and respect, especially since our goal goes beyond simply advancing from the group."

"In the knockout rounds, we will face big nations, and we will take it step by step; we are very excited and have already started preparations; this tournament will be exceptional in every way."

On the Saudi match, he added: "Saudi Arabia didn't just beat Argentina; they fell behind, then came back to draw and held the lead until the end."

He concluded: "I expect our clash with Saudi Arabia to be extremely tough; the Green possess a strong character and know how to impose their style in major matches."

Despite Saudi Arabia's historic 2-1 victory over Argentina in the opening game of last World Cup, they failed to advance beyond the group after losses to Poland and Mexico.

Punchline 1: If this clash were a stand-up routine, the defense would steal the show with a mic drop—no jokes, just solid blocks.

Punchline 2: And if you think the group looks rough, wait until the ball starts dancing—the referee might just call it poetry in motion.