Dani Olmo confident Spain can rebound after Cape Verde draw

Spain opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a 0-0 draw against Cape Verde. Coach Luis de la Fuente’s side struggled to break down the opposition’s defence and were missing Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams. Barcelona midfielder Dani Olmo said the group still believes they can achieve something great on the global stage after winning the 2024 European Championship. “It’s a real goal, we know it’s a very important year and after the European Championship, I think all of Spain turned to us. The feeling is that we can do something great again at a global level,” he said. Olmo added that wearing the colours of Barcelona or the national team carries responsibility and demands maximum effort. He described the pressure as preparation, work and mentality rather than stress. He highlighted his role as a link between lines, noting his intelligence, timing in the box and ability to connect attacks give Spain’s possession more bite. Olmo said his flexibility – not being a pure winger or a fixed No. 10 – allows him to change the rhythm and create chances. Reflecting on his early career, Olmo recalled moving from Barcelona to Croatia to start his professional journey. He said nobody gave him anything and that he had to learn to keep working and focus on himself after a limited second season.