Copy linkFacebookXPinterestEmailShare this article 0Join the conversationFollow usAdd us as a preferred source on GoogleNewsletterSubscribe to our newsletterAlexia Putellas insists Spains mens team remain firmly in contention to lift the World Cup trophy this summer despite their frustrating opening tie against Cape Verde.The European champions were held to a 0-0 draw by Cape Verde in their World Cup opener, a result that raised early questions about their status as one of the favourites of the 2026 World Cup.But Putellas, one of Spains most decorated players and a key figure in the womens teams success on the international stage, believes there is no reason for concern.Latest Videos FromWatch full video here: Alexia Putellas sooths Spain World Cup fearsIm super excited, Putellas said. They are really good players so we are very excited and it was a draw, but we know its just the beginning so we are 100% confident with them.We have a lot of games so its not how you start, its how you progress . Now its too early to talk about favourites, but Im sure we will see a great football and great games, I expect that. You may like How to watch Spain vs Cape Verde live streams online and from anywhere as the European champions take on the World Cup debutants. I can name the whole Spain squad from the 2010 World Cup they inspired us Mikel Merino on following in the footsteps of Spains Golden Age stars How Spains loss to England means the world champions could miss out on the 2027 World Cup Play our FREE World Cup scores predictor and win �1kSpain arrived at the tournament with significant expectations in Group H alongside Uruguay, Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde.It felt like a given that La Roja, ranked second in the world would beat Cape Verde, who sit 65 places behind them in the world rankings and are embarking on their first World Cup, in the newly-expanded 48-team tournament.Get FourFourTwo NewsletterThe best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.Cape Verdes historic World Cup debut was marked by a disciplined defensive display and a standout performance from 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha to restrict Luis de la Fuente's team to one point.Spain are the reigning European champions and have already written their name into football history by winning the World Cup in 2010.Putellas side matched that achievement in 2023, when they beat England to become World Champions for the first time, with the Barcelona legend knowing exactly what it takes to navigate the pressure of international football on the big stage. What to read next Spain vs Cape Verde prediction as European champions take on World Cup debutants Lamine Yamal fitness concerns addressed by Luis de la Fuente ahead of Spain vs Cape Verde How did Cape Verde qualify for World Cup 2026? She also knows the unique responsibility and feeling that comes with wearing the Spanish national shirt.I love when we play with the national team," Putellas added. "Its a special feeling because you feel like you represent all of your country, everybody."It doesnt matter the club you support, its the team of everybody you know so its very special.The feeling you have that everybody is watching the competition, all the world is focused on that so you feel that. It's super exciting because it's like everybody is watching what you are doing and what's happening on the pitch - thats my favourite thing about World Cups."When asked if the mens tournament gets her excited for next year, when Spain will look to retain their title at the 2027 Womens World Cup, Putellas said it was one of her objectives to ensure she is there competing in Brazil.Spain are already looking forward having beaten Saudi Arabia 4-0 in their second group game, putting themselves in the driving seat to make the Round of 32 with their Cape Verde draw firmly in the rear-view mirror.Putellas was speaking as part of Lays No Lay's No Game campaign.TOPICSAlexia PutellasSpainAyisha GulatiWomen's Football WriterAyisha Gulati is the women's football writer at FourFourTwo. Fresh from a summer covering the Lionesses triumphant Euro 2025 campaign in Switzerland, she brings a passion for all things WSL, UWCL, and international womens football. She has interviewed names including Alessia Russo and Aitana Bonmati and enjoys telling stories that capture the excitement on and off the pitch.
