Spain closed its final warm-up match before the start of the World Cup with a convincing 3-1 win over Peru at Estadio Cuauhtémoc in Puebla, a stadium with a long football history and experience hosting major tournaments. Luis de la Fuente’s side, considered one of the favorites for the competition, played without two of its main attacking stars, Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, who are still finishing their physical recovery ahead of the group stage. The coach used the match to test a lineup that looked closer to the team likely to begin the tournament, after making extensive changes in the previous friendly against Iraq.
Spain took control early and went ahead through Mikel Oyarzabal, who scored from outside the area with a left-footed strike after a pass from Pau Cubarsí. The goal reflected Spain’s dominance in possession and their ability to create chances from different areas of the pitch. Peru, which did not qualify for the World Cup, tried to respond through direct attacks and set pieces, but Spain’s structure limited their clear opportunities.
Before halftime, Pedri doubled Spain’s lead with a close-range finish after a pass from Ferran Torres, giving the European side a comfortable 2-0 advantage. Spain continued to press and came close to adding more goals through Ferran Torres, Dani Olmo and Álex Baena, while Peru also threatened at times, including a header from Adrián Ugarriza that was stopped on the line and a shot that hit the post. Despite those moments, Spain remained in control of the match.
In the second half, both teams made several substitutions. Spain introduced Dani Olmo, Eric García, David Raya, Yéremy Pino, Gavi, Mikel Merino, Marc Pubill and Martín Zubimendi, using the game to manage minutes and assess options. Peru also rotated its side, bringing on André Carrillo, Alfonso Barco and Maxloren Castro, among others, in search of a stronger attacking response. The changes brought more energy, but Spain still kept its advantage.
The decisive third goal came after pressure in the Peru box, ending with an own goal by goalkeeper Pedro Gallese, which made it 3-0 for Spain. Peru managed to pull one back later through Jairo Vélez, who finished from close range after a well-worked pass from Marcos López. The goal gave the home side a brief lift, but it did not alter the outcome.
Spain now turns its attention to the tournament, where it opens group-stage play on Monday, June 15, in Atlanta against Cape Verde. The performance against Peru offered positive signs for De la Fuente’s squad, particularly in attack and midfield, while also confirming the team still has room to grow before the World Cup begins.
