Pedro Sanchez has thrown his support behind the national team ahead of their opening match of the 2026 World Cup.

In a video shared on social media, the Spanish prime minister said Spain has ‘the best team’ as it begins its quest for a second world title after winning the Euros.

Spain kicks off its tournament campaign against Cape Verde at 6pm, with expectations running high after a remarkable run of form under coach Luis de la Fuente.

La Roja arrives at the tournament as reigning European champions and Nations League runners-up, while also boasting a streak of 30 matches without defeat.

With only hours to go before Spain’s World Cup debut, Sanchez delivered a message of encouragement from the Moncloa Palace.

The PM recalled some of the most iconic moments from Spain’s triumphant 2010 World Cup campaign, including Iker Casillas’ crucial penalty save against Paraguay, Carles Puyol’s winning goal against Germany and Andres Iniesta’s famous strike in the final.

‘The World Cup is beginning and we have the best team – young, diverse and also very experienced,’ Sanchez said.

He noted that many members of the current squad were part of the team that lifted the European Championship trophy in 2024 and said the country was now aiming for a second men’s World Cup star.

‘We’re going for the second star, the third for Spanish football, because as you know, the women’s national team also won theirs in 2023,’ he added.

Sanchez said he was confident the coming weeks would be unforgettable for supporters across the country.

‘A World Cup is not just about football. It’s about coming together, supporting our players and enjoying the journey. La Roja is the pride of an entire country, the pride of Spain. Let’s give it everything.’

Spain heads into the tournament as one of the bookmakers’ favourites, with fans hoping the similarities being drawn with the successful 2010 campaign will prove to be more than just coincidence.