​Spain face Portugal in a high-profile Round of 16 clash at Dallas Stadium on Monday, with both teams chasing a quarter-final spot and a meeting with the winner of USA vs Belgium. Spain arrive in superb form, regarded as one of the tournament’s strongest teams. They topped Group H with seven points, bouncing back from a draw to record convincing wins over Saudi Arabia and Uruguay. Their momentum continued into the knockout round with a 3-0 thrashing of Austria, where Mikel Oyarzabal was the standout, netting twice.
Spain team news includes several selection concerns. Nico Williams and Yeremy Pino are major doubts, Williams hampered by a groin and adductor issue and Pino sidelined with a shoulder ligament injury. Neither played in the Austria win and both are unlikely to be fit for this match. Víctor Muñoz remains out due to a thigh problem. Lamine Yamal and Alex Baena are expected to start on the flanks, supporting central striker Mikel Oyarzabal, who has been in excellent scoring form with four goals so far in the tournament. In midfield, De la Fuente may opt to bring in Fabián Ruiz ahead of Dani Olmo or Pedri to bolster defensive balance and control, especially to counter Portugal’s rapid attacking transitions.
Predicted Spain starting XI: Simon; Porro, Cubarsi, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Baena; Oyarzabal.
Kick-off is scheduled for 8pm BST on Monday, 6 July. In the United Kingdom, the Portugal vs Spain Round of 16 match will be shown live on BBC One.