Luis de la Fuente has declared that Spain should be counted among the favourites to win the FIFA World Cup 2026, as preparations intensify ahead of this summer’s tournament.
Spain have been drawn in Group H alongside Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay, with the campaign set to begin in three months.
Speaking before Tuesday’s friendly against Egypt, De la Fuente made it clear that Spain’s ambitions are high but grounded in realism.
“There is no doubt that we are among the favourites (to win the World Cup) and I like that, I don’t shy away from the challenge,” De la Fuente said.
“We are going to have to put on a perfect performance to win the World Cup, and we are aware that there are teams just as strong as us.
“For us, these matches are very important. Since last Monday, we have been working on preparing for the World Cup.
“That is our focus, and we are centred solely and exclusively on that goal.”
Spain head into the Egypt clash in a confident mood after a 3-0 win over Serbia in their previous friendly. Their only World Cup triumph remains the 2010 success in South Africa.
Meanwhile, Carlo Ancelotti has outlined the formula he believes will deliver success for the Brazil national football team in 2026.
Brazil face Croatia in a friendly at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, with Ancelotti stressing the need for balance between flair and defensive strength.
“Of course, we are prepared. Brazil’s last two titles (1994 and 2002) were based on the perfect combination of talent and defence,” Ancelotti said.
“History makes it very clear: if Brazil wants to win, it must have talent, we have it, and also have a good defence. There is no other way. I do not agree with playing only attacking football.”
Brazil have been drawn in Group C with Scotland, Haiti and Morocco, as both football heavyweights step up their build-up to the tournament.
