Group H fits the classic structure of “seeded teams plus three chasers.” Spain are top with FIFA’s No. 1 ranking, with Uruguay at No. 15 providing the second tier of strength; however, Cabo Verde (No. 70) and Saudi Arabia (No. 59) mean the competition among the lower and middle teams is not a one-way street.
Spain have been prolific over their last five matches, winning 4-0 vs Georgia, 4-0 vs Bulgaria, and 3-0 vs Serbia, leaving them in the steadier form. Uruguay’s recent form has been more volatile: they have suffered a 1-5 loss to the United States, drawn 1-1 with England, and played out 0-0 draws vs Algeria—making their defensive inconsistency especially worth watching.
The more plausible dark-horse is Cabo Verde. Over their last five matches they have won 3-0 against Eswatini, but they have also managed to draw with Finland, Egypt, and Iran. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, have suffered consecutive losses to Serbia, Egypt, Jordan, and Morocco; in their last five matches they have only beaten Palestine.
The key schedule is clustered around June 15, with Spain vs Cabo Verde, and Saudi Arabia vs Uruguay, followed by June 27 when Uruguay face Spain. The variables that will decide the group’s trajectory still hinge on whether the direct clashes between Spain and Uruguay can open up the gap and set the ceiling.