Dani Olmo Targets Xabi Alonso Record in World Cup Opener

Spain open the FIFA 2026 World Cup against Cape Verde tomorrow, with Barcelona forward Dani Olmo eyeing a record previously set by Xabi Alonso. Spain enter the tournament as favourites. Olmo scored Spain’s opening goal against Costa Rica in the Qatar 2022 World Cup, the first of 104 goals recorded under coach Luis de la Fuente. The strike opened Spain’s tally in de la Fuente’s tenure. Xabi Alonso, now manager of Chelsea, remains the only Spaniard to have opened the World Cup scoring twice.

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He headed against Ukraine in 2006 and converted a penalty against the Netherlands in 2014. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente is expected to start Baena on the left flank. Lamine Yamal is also expected to be fit for the encounter.

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Olmo is pushing for a place after a season of eight goals and nine assists for Barcelona and intensive fitness work. If Olmo features, he could match Alonso’s record. His inclusion in the starting eleven against Cape Verde is not guaranteed.