Oviedo, Spain – The Spanish men’s national basketball team is set to make history on Monday, March 2, 2026, as they face Ukraine in Oviedo, Asturias, in a crucial FIBA World Cup qualifying match. The game, scheduled for 8:30 PM CET (7:30 PM GMT), marks the first time the Spanish national team will play a competitive game in the city. A win for La Familia would put them on the cusp of advancing to the second round of European qualifying for the 2027 World Cup in Qatar.
The Palacio de los Deportes in Oviedo has been fully renovated in preparation for the event, and is expected to be filled to capacity. Fans have already snapped up all available tickets, promising a vibrant atmosphere for the contest. This match comes just 48 hours after Spain defeated Ukraine 86-66 in Riga, Latvia, on Friday, giving them momentum as they seek to secure their place in the next stage of qualification.
A City Embraces Basketball
The Spanish team held their first practice session at the Palacio de los Deportes on Sunday morning, following a welcome from Concepción Méndez, the Third Deputy Mayor and Councilor for Sports of Oviedo. The enthusiasm surrounding the game is palpable, with officials highlighting the pivotal role the city played in securing the match.
“All the conditions are in place for this game to be a success,” said Elisa Aguilar, President of the Spanish Basketball Federation. “First, since of the commitment of the City Council, which was key. From the first moment I came to visit, both the Mayor and the Councilor for Sports gave the necessary impetus for Oviedo to host this match.” Aguilar also emphasized the significance of the occasion, describing it as “a special window, a new project, with a new coach and with very young players who are doing really well in the ACB.”
Palacio de los Deportes Impresses
Aguilar was particularly impressed with the renovated facilities at the Palacio de los Deportes. “We come to Oviedo to a pavilion that leaves us astonished,” she stated. “I played here a few years ago, and the truth is that it is worthy of praise because the facilities have impressed everyone: the technical team, the players, and the Federation. I am really looking forward to tomorrow, to spot the pavilion full of people with the flags and that feeling of unity that the national team generates among the public.”
Players also echoed the positive sentiments. Pierre Oriola, who previously played in Oviedo at the Pumarín stadium, noted the significant improvements. “It’s nothing like it was before,” he said. “So we are happy that this Palacio will be full tomorrow and that all the fans can help us achieve victory.”
Chus Mateo’s Impact and Team Spirit
Head coach Chus Mateo has instilled a strong sense of camaraderie within the team, which he believes is a key factor in their recent success. “I am very happy with how this team transmits itself,” Mateo explained. “It transmits many things that I like: I like to see them help each other, I like to see that when one has a problem, the other immediately puts his hand on his shoulder. I like to see them get up off the floor, I like to see how they share the ball, I like to see that they enjoy collective effort and I like to see communication. Hopefully, that also reflects externally and that we play a good game… but those kinds of things give an extra point to be able to win matches too, the fact of being together.”
Spain enters the match with a perfect 3-0 record under Mateo, having secured victories against Denmark and Ukraine on the road, and Georgia at home. The team is currently riding a wave of confidence and appears well-positioned to continue their winning streak.
Looking Ahead: What’s at Stake
This match against Ukraine represents a significant opportunity for Spain to take a major step towards qualifying for the 2027 FIBA World Cup. A victory would leave them needing only one more win to advance to the second round of qualifying. Ukraine, however, will be looking for revenge after their defeat in Riga and will undoubtedly present a stern challenge. The game is expected to be a tightly contested affair, with both teams vying for a crucial win.
The Spanish roster for the match includes captain Jaime Fernández, Álvaro Cárdenas, Lluís Costa, Fran Guerra, Francis Alonso, Pep Busquets, Sergi Martínez, Santi Yusta, Alex Reyes, Pierre Oriola, Ferrán Bassas, Oriol Paulí, Izan Almansa, and Issac Nogués. With a blend of experienced veterans and promising young talent, Spain appears well-equipped to handle the pressure and secure a positive result in Oviedo.
Following Monday’s match, Spain will continue their World Cup qualifying campaign with further fixtures to be announced. Fans can stay up-to-date with the latest news and information on the Spanish Basketball Federation’s official website: https://www.feb.es/
The atmosphere in Oviedo is set to be electric as the city prepares to host its first-ever Spanish national basketball team game. With a passionate crowd and a determined team, La Familia will be aiming to deliver a memorable performance and move one step closer to the 2027 World Cup.
