Dani Olmo says “it is time” a second star adorned the Spain shirt as they prepare for their final Group H match at the 2026 World Cup against Uruguay.
Spain claimed the 2010 edition in South Africa but have endured a lean time since, winning just three games across the 2014, 2018 and 2022 tournaments with their best record being a round of 16 appearance in Russia and Qatar.
Their 2024 European Championship success has increased the hope that they can secure a second world title in the United States, Canada and Mexico, although they started slowly with a goalless draw against minnows Cape Verde.
Luis de la Fuente’s men looked back to their sparkling best in their last game, though, a 4-0 demolition of Saudi Arabia in Atlanta.
With four points they are virtually assured of a place in the round of 32 and a draw with Uruguay is likely to be enough to see them win the group.
And Olmo says further success on the global stage is long overdue.
He told AS: “It’s time for the second star. We have that quality with what we demonstrate on the field. And that human quality of people, of good people. It’s an opportunity we have. We know that we can depend on ourselves because we have that quality and we can go for it.”
Barcelona playmaker Olmo was restored to the XI for the Saudi game and combined well with club team-mate Lamine Yamal, who made his first start since sustaining a hamstring injury.
Asked to describe their relationship, he added: “We talk a little but we already know [what the other wants] just by looking at each other. I’ve been playing with him for a long time, I know what he likes, I know what motivates him too, which is not just one-on-one, but one-on-two.”
While Spain are almost assured of advancing, the same cannot be said for Uruguay who have struggled to two draws against minnows Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde.
Marcelo Bielsa’s side now need to get at least a draw against Spain and hope that is enough to put them through as one of the eight best third-placed finishers.
Former Uruguay and Barca striker Luis Suárez is confident they can get the result they need.
He said: “We like this kind of situation, we don’t want to be here but it’s our turn and let’s hope that the coach takes the right path so that Uruguay can play a good game on Friday.
“We have shown it in other World Cups and at this time we have to show courage, self-criticism and group strength, which is what is needed in this type of situation. It has to be demonstrated and we hope that this great group can do it.”
Team news for Uruguay v Spain
Ronald Araujo and Giorgian de Arrascaeta have both been ruled out for Uruguay.
Victor Munoz remains sidelined for Spain but Nico Williams is fit again and could replace Alex Baena on the left wing.
