World Cup Day 11 What to Watch – Spain, Belgium look to take control

Day 11 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 brings another fascinating set of group-stage fixtures as Groups G and H continue to take shape. Spain and Belgium will be looking to strengthen their positions, while Cape Verde and Iran aim to build on encouraging starts to their campaigns. Sunday’s action features four matches across the United States and Canada.

Spain vs Saudi Arabia

Spain return to action after being frustrated in a goalless draw against Cape Verde in their opening Group H match. Despite dominating possession and creating chances, the European giants were unable to find a breakthrough and now need a victory to avoid putting themselves under pressure heading into the final group game.

Saudi Arabia also enter the match searching for a positive result after a difficult start to the tournament. The Green Falcons know that another defeat could leave their qualification hopes hanging by a thread.

For Spain, the focus will be on converting possession into goals. With a squad packed with technical quality and tournament experience, they remain favourites to progress from the group, but they cannot afford another slip-up in Atlanta.

Belgium vs Iran

Group G could see its first major statement made when Belgium face Iran in Los Angeles. Belgium opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Egypt, a result that highlighted both their attacking quality and defensive vulnerabilities. The Red Devils will be eager to secure their first victory of the tournament and move closer to the Round of 32.

Iran, meanwhile, have shown in recent tournaments that they are capable of frustrating higher-ranked opponents. A positive result against Belgium would significantly improve their chances of reaching the knockout stage and potentially reshape the group standings.

Expect a tactical battle between Belgium’s creative attacking players and an Iranian side that is likely to remain compact and disciplined throughout the contest.

Uruguay vs Cape Verde

One of the most intriguing matches of the day takes place in Miami as Uruguay meet Cape Verde. The Blue Sharks earned plenty of admirers after holding Spain to a scoreless draw in their World Cup debut, proving they can compete with some of the biggest names in international football.

Uruguay, traditionally one of South America’s strongest World Cup nations, know they cannot underestimate the African side. The two-time world champions possess greater tournament pedigree, but Cape Verde’s organization and confidence could make this a difficult evening.

A win for either team would place them in a strong position heading into the final round of Group H fixtures.

New Zealand vs Egypt

The final match of Day 11 sees New Zealand take on Egypt in Vancouver. Group G remains finely balanced, and both teams understand the importance of collecting points before the decisive final group matches.

Egypt showed their quality in a hard-fought draw against Belgium, with their experienced core once again proving difficult to break down. New Zealand, meanwhile, will look to use their physicality and defensive organization to frustrate the Pharaohs.

With Belgium and Iran meeting earlier in the day, the result in Vancouver could have a major impact on the race for qualification. Three points would put either side in an excellent position to challenge for a place in the Round of 32.

Matches to Watch

• Spain vs Saudi Arabia (Group H)
• Belgium vs Iran (Group G)
• Uruguay vs Cape Verde (Group H)
• New Zealand vs Egypt (Group G)

By the end of Sunday, several teams could find themselves on the verge of qualification, while others may already be facing an uphill battle to keep their World Cup dreams alive.