- Spain are unbeaten in their last 10 games (W7, D3).
- Spain have scored 2.00 goals per game on average in their last 6 home matches (no losses).
- Cape Verde are unbeaten in their last 3 matches (W3), but have lost their last 2 away games (L2).
Senegal aren't the only debutants in Group H
Cape Verde make their FIFA World Cup debut on Monday and they are up against a Spain team who have plenty of big tournament pedigree and momentum to win their opening game in Atlanta. This Spain vs Cape Verde prediction suggests a tough test for the debutants, who must rely on their recent form to pose a challenge.
The Blue Sharks have won six of their last 10 internationals in all competitions and come into this Spain vs Cape Verde preview on the back of consecutive 3-0 home wins against Serbia and Bermuda. Bubista has moulded a cohesive and disciplined unit that can transition from a compact 4-2-3-1 shape quickly and flood forward with numbers in transition.
Stopira is an experience and physical anchor at the back, Ryan Mendes provides a constant threat on the break and Cape Verde's best chance of a win would be to absorb pressure and hit on the counter attack. Jovane Cabral offers a creative outlet and has the skill to hurt Spain on the dribble.
Sensible money is on Spain
Spain's odds-on quote of 1.11 for Monday's opener are just about right as Luis de la Fuente's men have the class, the quality and the momentum to blow Cape Verde away. Luis de la Fuente has given Spain's traditional 4-3-3 formation a more vertical and dynamic feel since taking over in December 2022, although they will naturally fall into a 4-2-3-1 when they have the ball. Based on our Spain vs Cape Verde prediction, backing the favorites seems reasonable given the gulf in quality.
Mikel Oyarzabal has been in fine form in attack, netting four goals in his last five games to spearhead Spain's forward line, while Pedri has been an ever-present as the midfield maestro, controlling the tempo and linking the play. Spain vs Cape Verde betting tips point to a strong Spanish showing in Atlanta.
Spain are likely to dominate possession and create far more chances in Atlanta, so Cape Verde will have to remain disciplined and try to hit on the few opportunities they are likely to get. They have won just one of their last four away games (D1, L2), conceding an average of 2.50 goals per match.
La Rojas can put on a show
Spain are on a good run of form and have won two of their last five international matches, including a 3-1 win away to Peru. The oddsmakers are expecting a high-scoring game with 'Total Score Over 2.5' priced up at 1.33, but we feel that this Spain vs Cape Verde prediction could see Cape Verde struggle to get on the scoreboard.
La Roja have not lost any of their last six home games (W3, D3) and have scored 2.00 and conceded 0.50 goals on average during that time. This game won't be played in familiar surrounds, but if Spain get their usual share of the ball, De la Fuente's side should be able to score multiple goals.
We like the odds for 'Both Teams to Score - No' at 1.5 for this matchup, because Cape Verde's defense is likely to remain compact and Spain have shown real defensive discipline during their unbeaten run.
