Spain opened their World Cup journey against Costa Rica in Doha on November 23, while Germany and Japan are already being evaluated as the tournament unfolds.
The Spanish squad began the Qatar 2022 campaign with a carefully plotted path that kicked off on Sunday, November 20, when the host nation, Qatar, faced Ecuador in the opener. This opening game set the tone for a World Cup staged in the Middle East, with international fans across Canada and the United States tuning in to a schedule that adjusted for the unique timing of this event.
Spain national team calendar: when and on what day will it play in the Qatar 2022 World Cup?
Placed in Group E alongside Germany, Japan, and Costa Rica, Spain’s manager Luis Enrique steered the team through a group phase that required patience before their first appearance. The Spaniards finally stepped onto the field on Wednesday, November 23 at 5:00 p.m. local time, recording a decisive 7-0 victory over Costa Rica. The Costa Rican side reached the World Cup by winning a playoff against New Zealand, bringing familiar faces to the pitch for Spanish fans, including Real Madrid’s goalkeeper Keylor Navas and Joel Campbell, a former attacker for Betis and Villarreal. In the North American broadcast markets, fans could follow the match with the anticipation that comes from a team known for its technical discipline and quick, fluid passing moves.
The second group game arrived four days later on Sunday, November 27, presenting a marquee clash against Germany at the Al Bayt Stadium. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, a result that offered a meaningful glimpse into how two ambitious teams might shape the group race in Qatar. It highlighted Spain’s balance between high-intensity pressing and meticulous build-up play, a combination that often translates well on the stage for Canadian and American viewers who favor tactical football and clear, organized systems.
Spain’s group campaign continued on Thursday, December 1, with a 8:00 p.m. kickoff against Japan in Rayyan. The encounter with the Asian side promised to be another test of resilience and tactical adaptability, as Japan has a reputation for pressing and stamina that can stretch games into demanding, long minutes. For fans in North America, this was a matchup that underscored the global nature of the World Cup and the ongoing evolution of Spain’s approach under Luis Enrique, blending possession with incisive attacks and a disciplined defensive structure.
If Spain advances to the Round of 16, the knockout stage would see the team play either on Monday, December 5, or Tuesday, December 6, depending on their final position in the group. These potential dates mark the transition from a group phase rooted in robust ball control to a high-stakes, single-elimination format where every goal matters and tactical adjustments become critical under pressure.
[Goal]