First test of 2026: Spain vs Serbia

Spain take on Serbia this Friday in Vila-real in a friendly shaped by its context: it is one of the final international tests before the World Cup. Luis de la Fuente’s team approach this stage knowing they must sharpen their patterns of play, adjust key pieces, and solidify a footballing identity that needs to be fully developed by the time the tournament arrives.

Spain first played at what is now the Estadio de la Cerámica on 5 June 1999, recording a historic 9–0 win over San Marino. On their second visit, shortly after winning UEFA Euro 2008, the national side defeated Chile 3–0 in a friendly. The most recent meeting at the venue came ahead of the 2018 World Cup, when Spain drew 1–1 with Switzerland. La Roja remain unbeaten at Villarreal’s ground.

Spain vs Serbia — Friday 27 March, 21:00 (La 1, TVE)

The manager has stressed that these matches are far from a mere formality. “We are already playing the World Cup,” he said in the pre-match press conference, underlining the level of intensity expected despite the friendly status. Spain are aiming to compete as if already in tournament mode, raising their standards with every outing.

Beyond the result, the match will help shape the final squad and assess players still pushing for selection. As De la Fuente noted, “there is competition to be involved,” highlighting the internal rivalry that continues to drive the squad’s development.

The fixture also carries a special angle at Villarreal’s stadium, with Álex Baena returning to a ground that has been central to his career. Serbia, meanwhile, will provide a stern test at this crucial stage of preparation, where every detail matters ahead of the World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Spain and Serbia have met three times, with Spain holding the edge: two wins and one draw. Their most recent encounter came in the 2024 Nations League, where Spain ran out 3–0 winners thanks to goals from Laporte, Álvaro Morata, and Baena.