Spain 3-1 Peru Recap: La Roja Arrive at the 2026 World Cup Ready to Dominate

La Roja wrapped up their World Cup preparations with a composed 3-1 victory over Peru at Estadio Cuauhtémoc, and honestly, it wasn't that close. This was a team that looked locked in, organized, and ready for the biggest stage in the world.

Image: The Associated Press

La Roja wrapped up their World Cup preparations with a composed 3-1 victory over Peru at Estadio Cuauhtémoc, and honestly, it wasn't that close. This was a team that looked locked in, organized, and ready for the biggest stage in the world.

Mikel Oyarzabal got Spain going almost immediately, finding the net inside the first two minutes after Pau Cubarsi spotted his run and delivered a brilliant ball into the attacking third. Oyarzabal took control and unleashed a thunderous left-footed strike that gave the goalkeeper no chance. Two minutes in. Statement made.

Peru tried to settle, but Spain wasn't interested in letting them breathe. Pedri doubled the lead in the 32nd minute with a slick attacking move that was trademark Spain — quick, sharp, and almost effortless. By halftime, the result was never really in doubt.

The third goal came early in the second half when Peru goalkeeper Pedro Gallese inadvertently turned Yeremy Pino's dangerous cross into his own net — one of those painful moments every goalkeeper dreads on the big stage.

Jairo Vélez pulled one back for Peru in the 66th minute, and credit to the South Americans for not giving up. They showed some fight in the second half, but this game was over long before the final whistle.

It's worth noting Spain were without Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams due to minor injury concerns — and they still dominated from the first whistle. That's the kind of squad depth that wins World Cups.

Spain controlled 62% of possession and dictated the tempo through midfield engine Rodri, Fabián Ruiz, and Alex Baena, who ran the show like they owned the place.

For Peru and coach Mano Menezes, there are takeaways — some grit, some second-half character — but this wasn't their night. Spain is operating on a different level right now.