Spain Beats Peru 3-1 in Final World Cup 2026 Warm-up
PUEBLA, Mexico – Reigning European champions Spain sent a clear message to the rest of the field on Monday, cruising to a 3-1 victory over Peru in their final warm-up match before the 2026 World Cup begins.
Playing in Puebla just six days before their tournament opener against Cape Verde, “La Roja” appeared sharp and synchronized. Head coach Luis de la Fuente fielded a starting lineup widely expected to be his preferred XI for the group stage, and the team responded with early dominance.
Spain Takes Control Early
Spain wasted no time asserting their authority, with Mikel Oyarzabal finding the back of the net in just the second minute of play. The early momentum continued throughout the first half as Barcelona’s Pedri doubled the lead in the 32nd minute, capping off a period of fluid attacking play.
The lead grew to 3-0 early in the second half when Peruvian goalkeeper Pedro Gallese suffered a stroke of misfortune, conceding an own goal in the 53rd minute. While Jairo Velez pulled one back for Peru in the 66th minute, the result was never in doubt. Peru, who failed to qualify for this summer’s finals, struggled to contain the technical superiority of the Spanish midfield.
A Tough Road Ahead in Group H
Despite the comfortable win, the real test begins on June 15 when Spain officially kicks off their campaign against the “Blue Sharks” of Cape Verde. The 2010 world champions are considered one of the heavy favorites to lift the trophy on July 19.
Following their debut, Spain will navigate a challenging Group H that includes matchups against Saudi Arabia on June 21 and a high-stakes finale against two-time champions Uruguay on June 26.
The 2026 World Cup, hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, officially begins on June 11.
Image: Pexels – Omar Ramadan
