Group H

Group H is one of the most straightforward groups on paper, yet contains layers of tactical intrigue. Spain under Luis de la Fuente arrive as reigning European champions with arguably their most talented young squad ever — Lamine Yamal at 18 and Nico Williams forming the most exciting wide partnership in the tournament, with Rodri’s midfield control making Spain one of the two or three genuine contenders for the title. Their opening match against Cape Verde in Atlanta sets the tone for a group Spain are expected to win comfortably.

Uruguay under Marcelo Bielsa represent one of the tournament’s most demanding philosophical systems — a relentless high-press built around positional discipline. Federico Valverde provides elite box-to-box quality, and Darwin Núñez’s pace creates transition threats against any high defensive line. Bielsa’s record of creating genuine momentum in tournaments makes Uruguay credible second-place finishers despite the quality gap with Spain.

Saudi Arabia enter in organizational chaos after sacking Hervé Renard just months before the tournament, with Georgios Donis’ pragmatic approach providing limited preparation time. Salem Al-Dawsari’s creative quality remains their standout weapon. Cape Verde are the Cinderella story of this group — the smallest nation to qualify at this scale, with organized defensive structure under Bubista offering potential for upsets against distracted opponents.