Yamal left out of Spain's starting XI for Cape Verde showdown

Spain will kick off their FIFA World Cup campaign against Cape Verde without teenage sensation Lamine Yamal in the starting lineup, as head coach Luis de la Fuente opts not to risk the Barcelona winger following his recent injury setback.

Yamal has been sidelined since suffering a hamstring injury while playing for Barcelona against Celta Vigo in April. Although he has returned to training and is available for selection, the 18-year-old is not yet ready to play a full match and is expected to feature as a second-half substitute.

Despite Yamal's absence, Spain have named a strong side for their Group H opener. Unai Simón starts in goal, while Marcos Llorente, Aymeric Laporte, Pau Cubarsí and Marc Cucurella form the back line. The midfield is anchored by Ballon d'Or winner Rodri alongside Pedri, Gavi and Fabián Ruiz, with Ferran Torres and captain Mikel Oyarzabal leading the attack.

Spain Starting XI:
Goalkeeper: Unai Simón
Defenders: Marcos Llorente, Aymeric Laporte, Pau Cubarsí, Marc Cucurella
Midfielders: Fabián Ruiz, Gavi, Rodri, Pedri
Forwards: Ferran Torres, Mikel Oyarzabal

The 2010 world champions and reigning European champions enter the tournament as one of the favourites, but De la Fuente has warned against underestimating Cape Verde, describing the African side as physically strong, tactically disciplined and capable of causing problems on the counterattack.

With Uruguay and Saudi Arabia also in Group H, Spain will be aiming to secure all three points and make a winning start to their quest for a second World Cup title.