Spain prepares for its second international friendly of 2026, facing Egypt at the RCDE Stadium in Cornellà on Tuesday, March 31st, at 9:00 PM local time (3:00 PM ET). Following a convincing 3-0 victory over Serbia, manager Luis de la Fuente is set to rotate the squad, offering opportunities to players who haven’t featured prominently. This match against Egypt, a strong representative of African football, serves as a valuable test for those vying for a place in the squad ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
De la Fuente indicated a planned reshuffle, stating, “We are going to refresh the team, a decision we made after the previous match. But we will also field a very good team because the situation demands it, and the national team requires it.” The manager confirmed a decision has already been made regarding the goalkeeping position, though he remained tight-lipped on the specifics. “The decision has been made, but we’ll see how the match unfolds. I won’t reveal anything until tomorrow because I like the players to discover out first,” he said, hinting that Joan García is in contention for a start.
The potential for jeers directed at Barcelona goalkeeper Joan García, playing at the home of Espanyol, doesn’t appear to concern the coach. De la Fuente appealed to fans to prioritize supporting the national team, urging them to “leave aside local rivalries.” He fondly recalled a similar atmosphere four years prior, describing it as “one of the best I remember with the national team.”
This friendly holds significance beyond simply experimentation. Spain is currently vying for the top spot in the FIFA world rankings, and De la Fuente emphasized the importance of maintaining their momentum. “We are playing for first place in the world ranking and want to continue the same dynamic we have had so far. Those who play will be very good, also in goal,” he stated.
Building Towards the World Cup
Beyond the starting lineup for this particular match, De la Fuente is already focused on the upcoming World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. He believes he has a core group of approximately 22 players identified, though acknowledges potential changes due to injuries. “We already have a significant core, but some injuries or setbacks may force us to make some changes, hopefully not,” he explained. He specifically mentioned the situations of Merino, Fabián, and Nico Williams, expressing confidence they will be fit for the tournament.
Eric García, currently sidelined with a minor injury, remains on the coach’s radar. De la Fuente praised García’s versatility and past contributions to the youth national teams, stating, “Eric has been with me in the U-19, U-21, and Olympic teams. Not yet with the senior team, but he is a player I like very much. He currently has a small injury, which may be what has prevented him from being here.”
De la Fuente acknowledged the positive external expectations surrounding Spain’s chances at the World Cup, but remained grounded. “Everyone likes to hear good things about themselves. It would be denying the evidence. These are compliments from the outside, just as I can talk about France, Germany, England, or Argentina. However, this does not guarantee anything, and we will have to deliver a near-perfect performance to have a chance of winning the World Cup,” he said.
The RCDE Stadium, home of RCD Espanyol, will host the match on Tuesday, March 31st, with kickoff scheduled for 9:00 PM local time (3:00 PM ET). Tickets and access to hospitality areas are still available, and the RCDE Stadium ticket offices will open on match day at 7:30 PM local time, closing at 9:30 PM. Fans attending the match are encouraged to utilize public transportation, with convenient access via the Cornellà Riera FGC station, Cornellà Centre Renfe/Metro station, and Trambaix line. Designated parking areas are available at Fira de Cornellà and the Almeda Industrial Park. Authorities will be enforcing parking regulations to ensure safety and accessibility around the stadium.
For those planning to attend, the RCDE Stadium store will be open from 11:00 AM to 9:15 PM on match day. Interior concession stands will also be open. Fans are reminded to support the team and enjoy the atmosphere, leaving aside club rivalries to unite behind the national team.
Spain’s preparation for the 2026 World Cup continues with this important friendly against Egypt. De la Fuente’s squad aims to build on their recent success and refine their strategies as they look ahead to the global tournament. The match promises to be a compelling encounter, offering a glimpse into the future of Spanish football and a chance for players to showcase their talent on the international stage.
The next confirmed checkpoint for the Spanish national team is the continued monitoring of player form and fitness ahead of the final World Cup squad announcement. Fans can stay updated on official team news and schedules through the RFEF website.
What are your thoughts on Spain’s preparations for the World Cup? Share your predictions and comments below!
