Spain host England on Sunday, 15 November 2026, with both sides expected to use a 4-2-3-1 formation in their Nations League group-stage meeting at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano in Madrid.
The match, which is the sixth round of the group stage, will kick off at 19:45 GMT. Spain are expected to rely on their familiar structure, combining control of possession with attacking movement, while England will look to match them with a similar system.
Spain’s probable XI
Spain’s back four should provide the foundation for a side built around patient possession and a high press. Two central midfielders are expected to offer protection in front of the defence and start attacks from deep.
Ahead of them, three attacking midfielders will operate between the lines and support the lone striker. The system is suited to Spain’s emphasis on quick movement, technical control and pressure high up the pitch as they attempt to unsettle England.
Goalkeeper: Unai Simon
Defenders: Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, Dean Huijsen, M. Cucurella
Midfielders: Yeremy Pino, M. Zubimendi – Fermin Lopez, Fabian, Alex Baena
Forward: Ferran Torres
England’s probable XI
England are also expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1, with the double pivot tasked with protecting the centre of the pitch and disrupting Spain’s build-up play.
The Three Lions’ defensive line will be supported by a compact midfield shape, while the attacking trio behind Harry Kane should provide width, pace and creativity. England are likely to focus on quick transitions and the effectiveness of their wide players as they seek to make the difference at the Metropolitano.
Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford
Defenders: Alexandre-Arnold, Jarell Quansah, Dan Burn, Salle Lewis
Midfielders: Morgan Rogers, E. Anderson, J. Bellingham, Declan Rice, Anthony Gordon
Forward: Harry Kane
The fixture will be Spain’s sixth Nations League group match and brings the two teams together in Madrid before the next stage of the competition is decided.
The published betting prices give Spain odds of 1.63 to win, with a draw priced at 3.70 and an England victory at 3.90.
