Spain’s Under-20 side began their long preparation for the 2027 World Cup with a friendly against Mexico at Cerro del Espino, carrying much of the group that lifted the European Under-19 crown in the summer.
| Fixture | Venue | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Spain Under-20 vs Mexico Under-20 | Cerro del Espino | Opening match of Spain’s build-up towards the 2027 Under-20 World Cup |
| 2027 Under-20 World Cup | Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan | Spain’s next major youth international target |
The Spain squad is largely built around the players who became European Under-19 champions. Xavi Espart of Barcelona is with the Under-21 group, while Atlético de Madrid’s Sergio Esteban, Elche player Buba and Celta’s Andrés Antañón are also absent. Pezzolesi of Las Palmas, Betis’ Corralejo, Albert Navarro of Atalanta and Real Sociedad’s Marchal are the four new names in the call-up.
Spain settle into control
Spain opened with Fortea, Mario Rivas, Cuenca and Jorge Salinas in defence. Quim Junyent, Zarate and Thiago Pitarch formed the midfield, with Morante, Hugo López and Joselillo Gaitán leading the attack.
The opening stages were played at high tempo, but Spain increasingly dictated possession while Mexico held a deeper position in their own half. Thiago Pitarch made an early recovery as Spain looked to establish control through the middle.
Joselillo Gaitán sent one effort over after a patient Spanish move, before another attack brought the first clear threat: Fortea reached the area and delivered towards the far post, where Gaitán’s finish was turned behind for a corner by the Mexico goalkeeper.
A European champion core looks ahead
Spain come into this international window as the holders of eight European Under-19 titles, with the latest triumph supplying the backbone of this Under-20 selection. The meeting with Mexico marks the beginning of a longer journey towards a World Cup to be staged across Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan in 2027.
