Spain will aim to bounce back in their World Cup campaign when they face Saudi Arabia on Sunday evening, following an unexpected goalless draw against Cape Verde in their opening match. The European champions struggled to create clear scoring opportunities in their first game, with key forwards Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams only managing brief appearances from the bench due to fitness concerns. While Yamal is not yet fit for a full 90 minutes, there is an expectation he could feature for at least half the match as Spain look to sharpen their attacking play.

Spain’s initial draw ranks among the tournament’s biggest surprises, as Cape Verde, considered underdogs, held the European side to a scoreless outcome. Midfielder Pedri was a standout performer in that match, creating five chances – the highest for any player on matchday one – suggesting he could play a central creative role against Saudi Arabia.

Later on Sunday, Belgium will take the field against Iran, aiming to recover from their own opening point against Egypt. Belgium’s match kicks off at 8 p.m., with pre-match build-up starting an hour earlier. The United States’ previous performance has influenced Iran’s standing in the group, and Belgium are favorites to secure a win.

Additional fixtures on Sunday include Uruguay facing Cape Verde at 11 p.m., with coverage starting at 10:30 p.m., and New Zealand meeting Egypt in a late-night match beginning at 2 a.m., broadcast with pre-match coverage from 1:30 a.m. Saudi Arabia will be looking to repeat their earlier World Cup surprises, having caused an upset themselves in the group stages, while Spain seeks to assert their dominance as the holders of the European title.

Broadcasters have scheduled extensive coverage for these encounters, with Spain’s clash against Saudi Arabia beginning at 5 p.m. and televised live on BBC One from 4:30 p.m., followed by other matches later in the evening. Both teams will be under pressure to demonstrate improved performances as they strive for progression in the tournament.