“Spain look unbeatable right now, but Serbia possess the talent to give them problems,” remarked an observer ahead of the match. This sentiment echoed the anticipation surrounding the friendly encounter between Spain and Serbia, held at Estadio de la Cerámica in Villarreal on March 27, 2026.
Spain showcased their dominance with a decisive 3-0 victory, marking a significant moment in their preparations for the upcoming World Cup. Mikel Oyarzabal was the standout player, scoring two goals in the first half, which set the tone for the match. His performance was described as a reward for the control Spain enjoyed throughout the game.
Rodri made his first start for Spain since 2024, contributing to the team’s midfield stability. The match kicked off at 4 p.m. ET, following Spain’s previous match, which ended in a 2-2 draw against Turkiye. In contrast, Serbia came into the game on a high after a 2-1 victory over Latvia, but they struggled to find their rhythm against the Spanish side.
Spain’s first goal came from Oyarzabal, who found the net early, capitalizing on a defensive lapse from Serbia. The Real Sociedad forward’s second goal further cemented Spain’s lead, showcasing their attacking prowess. The third goal was scored by Víctor Muñoz, sealing the match in favor of the home team.
Despite Spain’s commanding performance, Serbia had their moments, including a disallowed goal by Veljko Birmancevic, which was ruled out for a foul on Marc Cucurella. This incident highlighted the frustrations faced by the Serbian side as they sought to break through Spain’s defense.
Spain’s victory not only demonstrated their current form but also confirmed their qualification for the 2026 World Cup, finishing first in their qualifying group with 16 points. Meanwhile, Serbia’s hopes were dashed as they finished third in their group with 13 points, failing to qualify for the tournament.
As Spain continues to build momentum, they are considered one of the favorites to win the World Cup, thanks to their talented squad. The match was also notable for being part of a series of International Friendlies, providing both teams with valuable experience ahead of the tournament.
Looking ahead, Spain’s focus will remain on refining their tactics and squad cohesion as they prepare for the World Cup. The performance against Serbia will likely serve as a confidence booster as they aim for success on the global stage.