Spain expects Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal fit for June 15 World Cup match

Lamine Yamal in trainingREUTERS / Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Spain expects forwards Nico Williams, Lamine Yamal, and Victor Munoz to be fit for their World Cup opener against Cape Verde on June 15, according to coach Luis de la Fuente on Sunday. The trio have been recovering from various injuries while training in Chattanooga, Tennessee, ahead of the tournament.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente confirmed on Sunday that players Nico Williams, Lamine Yamal, and Victor Munoz are progressing well in their recovery and are expected to be fit for the World Cup opener against Cape Verde on June 15. The three forwards have been undergoing rehabilitation at Spain’s training base in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to manage various injuries ahead of the tournament.

Lamine Yamal, 18, has been dealing with groin issues and a hamstring injury sustained in April, but remains on course for the match. Williams and Munoz have also recovered from their respective injuries while continuing preparation with the national team. Due to their ongoing rehabilitation, the trio did not travel with the squad for Spain’s final warm-up match against Peru on June 10 in Puebla.

De la Fuente indicated that, barring any setbacks, all three will be available to play against Cape Verde. “All three are within the expected timelines to arrive in good condition for June 15,” the coach said. However, he was cautious when asked about their potential to start the match, emphasizing the importance of their continued progress and availability for selection during the game.

Spain will face Peru in their final preparatory fixture before heading to Atlanta for the World Cup opener. De la Fuente stressed that the match against Peru holds significant value beyond a mere warm-up. Entering the World Cup as reigning European champions, Spain are considered tournament favorites, with predictions giving them a 26% chance of claiming the trophy. Forward Yeremy Pino acknowledged the pressure accompanying these expectations but expressed confidence in the team’s ability to perform.