Both Pedri and Mikel Oyarzabal both scored as Spain claimed a 3-1 victory against Peru in a friendly match ahead of World Cup.
The match served as a critical opportunity for coach Luis de la Fuente to fine-tune his side’s tactical approach and build momentum just days before the global tournament officially kicks off.
Spain wasted no time in asserting their authority. With the crowd in Puebla buzzing with pre-tournament excitement, the team delivered an immediate breakthrough.
Just two minutes into the contest, Mikel Oyarzabal found the net with a powerful strike from the edge of the penalty area, setting the tone for a dominant first half.
The momentum remained firmly with Spain throughout the opening period. They dictated the tempo, utilizing their characteristic high-possession style to keep Peru’s defense under constant pressure.
Their control was rewarded in the 32nd minute when Pedri doubled the lead. The Barcelona midfielder tapped the ball into an empty net following a precise cross from Ferran Torres.
Coming out of the halftime break, Luis de la Fuente utilized the friendly environment to rotate his squad, introducing fresh faces such as David Raya, Eric Garcia, and Dani Olmo.
The intensity dipped slightly, which is to be expected in a final tune-up, but Spain remained disciplined.
In the 53rd minute, the lead extended to 3-0 through an unfortunate own goal by Peru goalkeeper Pedro Gallese, who was unable to deal with an effort from Yéremy Pino.
To their credit, Peru did not collapse. They continued to search for a way back into the game and were rewarded in the 66th minute.
Jairo Vélez finished a well-worked attacking move, providing a moment of quality for the Peruvian supporters who had traveled to witness the match.
The game carried on until it ended with Spain claiming a 3-1 victory over Peru in what is their final friendly games before they start their World Cup campaign for 2026.
While the result was important, the match was primarily a test of fitness and cohesion. Spain entered the game facing concerns over the health of key stars like Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, and Víctor Muñoz.
All three remained at the team’s training base in Tennessee to continue their rehabilitation. De la Fuente has expressed optimism that these vital players will be fit to participate in Spain’s opening match of the tournament against Cape Verde on June 15 in Atlanta.
The atmosphere in Puebla underscored the magnitude of the upcoming weeks. Local fans filled the stands with a mix of Spain jerseys and club kits, creating a festival-like environment that served as a fitting precursor to the World Cup.
As Spain heads into the tournament, they do so with a clear tactical identity and the confidence of a comfortable victory.
Following the Cape Verde opener, the team is set to face Saudi Arabia on June 21 and Uruguay on June 26, completing their group stage schedule.
This performance against Peru provided exactly what the coaching staff needed; a controlled win, an opportunity to test squad depth.
The encounter also served as a final morale boost before the high-stakes journey of the World Cup begins.
Spain are in high spirit as they look to conquer the World after claiming the European Championship title with a commanding display on the final.
