Alexia Putellas has emphasised that Spain still have a long road ahead in their pursuit of World Cup success this summer, despite a disappointing start to the tournament.

The Spanish star expressed full confidence in Spain’s men’s team, insisting they remain serious contenders for the World Cup trophy even after a frustrating goalless draw against Cape Verde in their opening match.

The reigning European champions were held to a 0-0 stalemate by Cape Verde in their first World Cup fixture — a result that prompted early questions about their credentials as one of the leading favourites at the 2026 World Cup.

However, Putellas, one of Spain’s most decorated footballers and a central figure in the women’s team’s international triumphs, maintained there is no reason for alarm.

“I’m super excited,” Putellas said. “They are really good players, and we are all very excited. It was a draw, but we know it’s just the beginning, and we are 100% confident in them.”

She added, “We have many matches ahead, so it’s not about how you start but how you develop. It’s too early to talk about favourites, but I’m sure we’ll see excellent football and great matches — that’s what I expect.”

Spain entered the tournament with high expectations in Group H, which also includes Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, and Cape Verde.

It was widely assumed that La Roja, ranked second in the world, would comfortably defeat Cape Verde, who are making their first-ever World Cup appearance and are ranked 65 places lower in the global standings. The match took place as part of the newly expanded 48-team competition.

Cape Verde’s historic World Cup debut was defined by a disciplined defensive setup and an outstanding performance from 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha, ensuring Luis de la Fuente’s side took only one point from the encounter.

Spain, the reigning European champions, already hold a significant place in football history, having won the World Cup in 2010.

Putellas and her teammates matched that accomplishment in 2023 when the women’s team defeated England to claim their first-ever World Cup title. The Barcelona icon knows exactly what it takes to handle the immense pressure of international tournaments.

She also understands the pride and responsibility that come with representing Spain on the world stage.

“I love when we play for the national team,” Putellas shared. “It’s a special feeling because you know you’re representing your whole country — everyone, regardless of which club they support.”

“It doesn’t matter the club you follow; it’s the team of everyone. The feeling that the entire world is watching the competition, that all eyes are on what you’re doing on the pitch — that’s what makes the World Cup so thrilling for me.”

When asked whether the men’s tournament inspires her for next year’s challenge — when Spain will attempt to defend their crown at the 2027 Women’s World Cup — Putellas said one of her main goals is to ensure she is competing in Brazil.

Spain have already bounced back strongly, defeating Saudi Arabia 4-0 in their second group match, putting themselves in control of Group H and leaving the Cape Verde draw behind them.

Putellas made her remarks as part of Lay’s ‘No Lay’s No Game’ campaign.