27 Mar
Fri
•9:00pm
Lusail Stadium • Doha
The weight of the points on the line makes this much more than just a clash of styles. The reigning champions of Europe come in as the global benchmark, faithful to a game plan built on patient possession, high pressing and lightning-fast ball circulation.
Opposite them, the Tricolor double down on a style of maximum intensity, blistering transitions and toughness in every duel, driven by the power of their wingers. Their recent head-to-heads, mostly friendlies, have been decided by the tiniest details: tight scorelines, draws and an early celebration for the Colombian side. In a group stage where every mistake is punished, this showdown could decide who takes a big step towards qualification—and who’s forced to swim against the tide.
The Spanish side proudly wear their World Cup star (2010) and arrive boosted by their opening rout at the last tournament and a recent European title, sitting today on top of the FIFA rankings. On the other side, the South Americans cling to that epic run to the 2014 quarter-finals and the momentum of having been runners-up at the last Copa América, in the middle of their best unbeaten streak.
On the pitch, Rodri, Pedri and Morata will go head-to-head with the flair of Luis Díaz, the power of Jhon Córdoba and the vision of James Rodríguez. Book your tickets and experience live how these two powerhouses put a big part of their World Cup future on the line.