Spain's Yamal fit but benched as Iran face visa crisis on World Cup opening day

Spain open their 2026 World Cup campaign against Cape Verde on Monday, June 15, with Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal declared fit by head coach Luis de la Fuente but left out of the starting lineup after an injury scare in the weeks before the tournament. Nico Williams, who also picked up a knock in the build-up, is similarly available without starting.

De la Fuente said Yamal, 18, is in “perfect condition” after the injury concern threatened to cloud Spain’s preparations. The reigning European champions enter the tournament as favourites for the title, though the cautious handling of two of their most dangerous attackers will be closely watched.

Iran’s participation in the tournament has been overshadowed by a diplomatic dispute that has seen 11 members of their World Cup delegation denied US visas. Iran accused the United States of blocking “integral” backroom staff from travelling, with the team forced to base themselves in Mexico and fly into the US only on matchdays before departing the same day.

The travel restrictions stem from concerns over individuals with links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which Secretary of State Marco Rubio said could face entry barriers despite a peace deal signed between Donald Trump and Iran on Sunday. Iran face New Zealand in Los Angeles at 2am UK time (6pm local time).

Elsewhere on the opening Monday of the tournament, Belgium take on Egypt at 8pm UK time, while Saudi Arabia and Uruguay both begin their campaigns at 11pm UK time.