7M - World Cup Preview: Spain vs Serbia - prediction, team news, lineups

Spain Prepare for 2026 Finals in Villarreal

Spain continues their warm-up for the 2026 World Cup with a friendly against Serbia at Villarreal's Estadio de la Ceramica on Friday, March 27, 2026. Luis de la Fuente's side enters this international window in high spirits after successfully topping Group E in qualification, finishing three points clear of Turkey with 16 points from six matches. Having secured their place in the summer finals, where they will open against Cape Verde on June 15, "La Roja" is using this match to refine tactical systems and evaluate squad rotation. Spain's recent form remains formidable, boasting a six-match unbeaten streak across all competitions, including five clean sheets during their qualifying campaign.

Serbia Seek Rebuilding Phase After Qualification Exit

In contrast, Serbia travels to Spain with their focus shifted toward the next UEFA Nations League cycle after failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. The "Orlovi" finished a disappointing third in Group K, collecting 13 points from eight games and trailing one point behind second-placed Albania. Despite the setback, manager Veljko Paunovic is utilizing this fixture to blood new talent while relying on the leadership of veteran Aleksandar Mitrovic, who remains the nation's all-time leading scorer. Serbia's away form has been inconsistent, but they famously held Spain to a goalless draw in late 2024, providing a blueprint for defensive resilience they hope to replicate in Villarreal.

Team News and Tactical Outlook

Spain will be without several key regulars as Fabian Ruiz, Mikel Merino, Gavi, and Alvaro Morata are all notable absentees from the latest squad. This provides an opportunity for Lamine Yamal to lead the creative charge alongside Ferran Torres and Mikel Oyarzabal. Defensively, Dean Huijsen is expected to feature as De la Fuente tests younger options. Serbia will be led by the experienced duo of Aleksandar Mitrovic and Luka Jovic in the final third, while Nemanja Gudelj is set to earn his 75th cap in midfield. The match is expected to see Spain dominate possession, while Serbia remains compact, looking to exploit set-pieces and counter-attacking opportunities.

Predicted Score: Spain 2-1 Serbia