The 2010 Coincidences Fueling Spain's Hopes

Reigning European champions Spain are among the top contenders for the 2026 World Cup title, and a series of striking coincidences with 2010—the year of La Furia Roja's historic triumph in South Africa—bolster the team's chances.

1. Just like in 2010, Barcelona has eight representatives in the Spanish squad. Back then, they were Victor Valdés, Carles Puyol, Gerard Piqué, Sergio Busquets, Xavi Hernández, Andrés Iniesta, Pedro Rodríguez, and David Villa. Now, the contingent includes Joan García, Eric García, Pau Cubarsí, Pedri, Gavi, Dani Olmo, Lamine Yamal, and Ferran Torres.

2. Similar to the spring of 2010, local giants Real Madrid finished the recent season without a single trophy.

3. Spain arrived in South Africa as the 2008 European champions. This time, they again enter the tournament as the reigning continental champions following their 2024 triumph.

4. It was in 2010 that José Mourinho began his first spell as Real Madrid's manager, and now "The Special One" is returning for his second stint at the Bernabéu.

5. Both the 2010 and 2026 World Cups kicked off on the same date, June 11, with the exact same opening match: South Africa vs. Mexico.

6. For both tournaments, the official song is performed by Shakira: "Waka Waka" back then, and "Dai Dai" now.

7. In 2010, Atlético Madrid lost the Copa del Rey final 0-2 to Sevilla. This year, they suffered another defeat in the decisive clash for the same trophy, losing on penalties to Real Sociedad.

8. In South Africa, Spain was drawn in Group H alongside Switzerland, Honduras, and Chile. Now, they are once again in the same group, facing Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay.

9. In 2010, Marcelo Bielsa faced Spain as the manager of Chile. He will once again meet the Iberians in the group stage, this time as the head coach of Uruguay.

10. Just like in 2010, Barcelona won both La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup this year.