A Polished Display in Puebla
Spain rounded off their World Cup preparations in emphatic fashion, easing past Peru 3-1 in Puebla in what was their final friendly before the tournament gets underway. Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedri were the standout performers in a performance that demonstrated both La Roja’s technical superiority and their growing tactical cohesion under Luis de la Fuente.
The scoreline, while comfortable, perhaps flattered the South Americans, who barely threatened the Spanish goal in the first half and only improved marginally after the interval. For De la Fuente, the match achieved everything he would have wanted: a convincing victory, no injuries, and a clear statement of intent ahead of the tournament opener against Cape Verde.
Oyarzabal Leads the Line
Mikel Oyarzabal continued his rich vein of form with a goal and an assist that underlined his importance to this Spain side. The Real Sociedad captain has developed into one of the most complete forwards in European football, combining technical excellence with a relentless work rate that sets the tone for Spain’s press.
His movement off the ball created constant problems for the Peru defense, dragging defenders out of position and creating space for the midfield runners to exploit. The goal itself was a clinical finish, the kind of composed finishing that has made him De la Fuente’s trusted option in the number nine role.
Pedri Pulls the Strings
In midfield, Pedri was at his brilliant best. The Barcelona maestro dictated the tempo from deep positions, offering himself as a constant passing option and breaking the Peruvian lines with his trademark incisive through balls. His understanding with the wide players and Oyarzabal has reached a level of telepathic connection that makes Spain’s attacking transitions seamless.
Pedri’s ability to receive the ball under pressure and turn away from danger is unmatched in this Spain squad. The 23-year-old has matured into the team’s creative heartbeat, and performances like this one will be essential if Spain is to make a deep run in the tournament.
Room for Improvement
Despite the comprehensive victory, there were moments that will give De la Fuente pause. Spain’s intensity dropped noticeably after taking a commanding lead, allowing Peru to grow into the game and pull a goal back. Against stronger opposition in the knockout stages, such lapses could prove costly.
The absence of Lamine Yamal through injury has also raised questions about Spain’s width in attack. While the young Barcelona star’s recovery is reportedly on track, his potential absence from the early group matches would represent a significant blow to Spain’s creative options. De la Fuente will be hoping the teenager is ready for the tournament opener.
World Cup Ready
As the final whistle blew in Puebla, the message from the Spanish camp was clear: La Roja is ready. Three weeks of intense preparation have produced a team that combines the traditional Spanish DNA of possession-based football with a more direct edge. Peru provided a useful test, and Spain passed with flying colours, even if the homework is not yet complete.
Attention now turns fully to the World Cup. With the group stage fixtures mapped out and the squad settled, Spain enters the tournament as one of the favorites. Performances like this one in Puebla will only strengthen that belief.
