What observers say
“Spain look unbeatable right now, but Serbia possess the talent to give them problems,” remarked a football analyst ahead of the match. This statement proved prophetic as Spain showcased their dominance on the pitch, defeating Serbia 3-0 at Estadio de la Cerámica in Villarreal on March 27, 2026.
Mikel Oyarzabal was the standout performer, scoring two goals in the first half, which set the tone for Spain’s commanding victory. The Real Sociedad forward’s strikes came as a reward for Spain’s control of the game, with Oyarzabal’s first goal arriving in the 23rd minute, followed by another just before halftime.
As the match progressed, Víctor Muñoz sealed the deal with a third goal in the 78th minute, further emphasizing Spain’s attacking prowess. Rodri made his first start for Spain since 2024, contributing to a midfield that effectively stifled Serbia’s attempts to break through.
Serbia, despite their talent, struggled to find their rhythm. They thought they had scored when Veljko Birmancevic found the net, but the goal was disallowed for a foul on Marc Cucurella. This moment encapsulated Serbia’s frustrations throughout the match.
Spain’s victory not only showcased their current form but also solidified their position as one of the favorites to win the 2026 World Cup, having finished first in their qualifying group with 16 points. In contrast, Serbia’s hopes were dashed as they finished third in their group with 13 points, failing to qualify for the tournament.
The match kicked off at 4 p.m. ET and was part of a series of International Friendlies, providing both teams with crucial preparation ahead of the World Cup. Spain’s previous match ended in a 2-2 draw with Turkiye, while Serbia had secured a 2-1 victory over Latvia, making this encounter a significant test for both sides.
With this victory, Spain continues to build momentum as they head towards the World Cup, while Serbia will need to reassess their strategy moving forward. As the football world watches closely, Spain’s next steps will be crucial in determining their path to glory.