One of the giants of the soccer world is heading to North Texas.
Here’s everything to know about Spain before the game.
Spain vs. Portugal
When: Monday, July 6, 2 p.m.
Where: Dallas Stadium, Arlington
Broadcast: Fox (Ch. 4), Telemundo
Spain 0, Cape Verde 0 – Group H
Spain 4, Saudi Arabia 0 – Group H
Spain 1, Uruguay 0 – Group H
Spain 3, Austria 0 – Round of 32
World Cup appearances: 17 (1934, 1950, 1962, 1966, 1978, 1982, 1986, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, 2026)
Best finish: Champion (2010)
Spain population: 47.8 million
Spain is the reigning European champion and a threat to win any major tournament it plays in, but La Roja have been disappointing at the World Cup in recent years. Before beating Austria on Thursday in the round of 32, the team hadn’t won a knockout-round game since winning it all in 2010, astonishing given the quality of players they’ve had in that stretch. A new generation of Spanish players hopes to relive the glory of the team that inspired it 16 years ago.
Spain’s title hopes begin with Lamine Yamal, the 18-year-old sensation who has been regaining his fitness and form throughout the tournament. He’s shown poise and composure on the big stage, scoring a goal in the Euro 2024 semifinals against France at just 16. Mikel Oyarzabal is another key player, leading Spain in goals at the World Cup with four. The Real Sociedad forward will have to keep up his attacking prowess for his team to continue on to the quarterfinals.
The Spanish fans are some of the most passionate in the world and are sure to bring the energy for a round of 16 tilt against Iberian rival, Portugal. Decked out in their trademark red, they were marching through the streets in Los Angeles and Madrid when their country knocked off Austria. Expect more of the same as they descend on Arlington.