- Team form: Spain are unbeaten in their last 5 matches (W2, D3) and 6 at home (W3, D3).
- Recent results: Cape Verde have lost their last two away matches but come into this game on the back of back-to-back wins, including a 3-0 win at home to Serbia.
Style match-up set to determine match outcome
Match context
Style is going to be the theme of this clash as Cape Verde make their first ever World Cup appearance on Monday and try to upset one of the heavyweights of Group H. Cape Verde's compact structure, solid defense and counter-attacking quality will be put to the test against a Spain side that are looking to flex their muscles as they usually do.
Spain's strengths
Spain are undeniably one of the most dangerous teams in the world and come into this match as the heavy favourites with an 1.11 odds. Cape Verde are the heavy underdogs and while their recent form has been mixed, the odds are stacked against them.
Luis de la Fuente's Spanish side are a fluid side, capable of playing at high tempo when the chance comes. They look to control the ball and play a structured 4-3-3 that allows them to press high up the field and quickly transition to vertical play. Their midfield is the beating heart of their side and with Rodri to control the game, Mikel Oyarzabal to break free and score goals and Dani Olmo to unlock compact defenses, they have all the tools to win this match.
Spain have too much quality for Cape Verde
Cape Verde boss Pedro 'Bubista' Brito is another boss who likes to keep his men compact, with a 4-2-3-1 or narrow 4-4-2 system. They will sit in a mid-block and look to be compact when defending and are deadly in transition when they can spring their fast men forward in direct style.
In general, Cape Verde have been competitive in their games but are yet to consistently make the quality leap to match the likes of Spain.
Spain's firepower should be enough to get them a comfortable win and a shutout on Monday, so the 'Both teams to score – No' market at 1.5 looks excellent value.
- Ryan Mendes is one of those men and he could be dangerous in the counter attack.
- Vozinha is the most well known Cape Verde player and he was in excellent form during their penalty shootout win over Finland.
- Brito's side have won 5, drawn 2 and lost 3 of their last 10 outings, while Spain have won 6, drawn 3 and lost just 1.
