Welcome to The Athletic’s 2026 World Cup tactical group guides, walking you through the key battles on the pitch, the players to look out for, and the fun facts to impress your friends.In this article, we will break down Group H, containing Spain, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde.It’s a group that contains a pre-tournament favourite, a World Cup debutant and contrasting styles, as the aggression and the intensity of Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay go head-to-head with the all-controlling possession of Spain.Do not write off Saudi Arabia or Cape Verde, either, who have both proven that they can pack a punch when the space opens up to attack.So, will the defending European champions pass and move their way around the press? Or will stubborn defences and swift breakaways come out on top?The gamesMatchday one
Monday, June 15: Spain vs Cape Verde (12pm ET, 9am PT, 5pm BST) — Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
Monday, June 15: Saudi Arabia vs Uruguay (6pm ET, 3pm PT, 11pm BST) — Hard Rock Stadium, Miami
Matchday two
Sunday, June 21: Spain vs Saudi Arabia (12pm ET, 9am PT, 5pm BST) — Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
