Matchup
Spain and Cape Verde set to face off
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Spain and Cape Verde are set to start their World Cup journey on Monday.
As the current European champions, Spain are considered strong contenders for the world title, whereas Cape Verde are making their debut in a major tournament.
Luis de la Fuente’s squad have lost three of their last four opening group stage matches at the World Cup, including when they lifted the trophy in 2010.
Official named for Spain vs Cape Verde match
They at least have Lamine Yamal cleared to be on the substitutes’ bench after recovering from a groin injury he picked up in April during Barcelona’s La Liga title chase.
Only current holders Argentina are ranked higher than La Roja in FIFA’s global standings, while Cape Verde have held steady at 67th place heading into this fixture.
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Yet the small West African nation will hold onto hope after topping their qualifying group ahead of perennial contenders Cameroon.
But who will be the official in charge for this underdog versus giant clash?
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Jordanian referee Adham Makhadmeh has been assigned to oversee Group H’s first match, having served as a full FIFA international referee since 2013.
The 39-year-old has extensive experience from 167 matches at various levels, including an Intercontinental Cup first-round game between Pyramids FC and Auckland City.
Makhadmeh has also managed high-profile fixtures in the AFC Champions League, as well as Spain’s opening group stage match against Egypt during the 2021 Olympics campaign.
He will be assisted at Atlanta Stadium by two fellow Jordanians, Mohammad Alkalaf and Ahmad Alroalle, with Andres Rojas from Colombia set to serve as the fourth official.
If Makhadmeh is unable to fulfill his duties, another Colombian is on standby to complete the officiating team, with Alexander Guzman designated as the match’s reserve referee.
A sold-out crowd of more than 75,000 is anticipated for this encounter, which will shape the Group H standings ahead of Saudi Arabia and Uruguay’s match later on Monday.
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