Jordanian referee Adham Makhadmeh has been appointed to officiate Monday's Group H opener between Spain and Cape Verde at the FIFA World Cup 2026, with Atlanta Stadium set to host a sell-out crowd of more than 75,000.

Makhadmeh, 39, has held full FIFA international referee status since 2013 and brings extensive experience to the role — having overseen 167 matches across a range of competitions. His résumé includes an Intercontinental Cup fixture between Pyramids FC and Auckland City, high-profile AFC Champions League ties, and Spain's group stage match against Egypt at the 2021 Olympics.

He will be flanked by two fellow Jordanians on the touchline: assistant referees Mohammad Alkalaf and Ahmad Alroalle. Andres Rojas of Colombia takes the fourth official role, while compatriot Alexander Guzman serves as reserve referee should Makhadmeh be unable to continue.

Spain's opening challenge

As reigning European champions, Spain arrive as one of the tournament favourites and rank second in FIFA's international standings, behind only holders Argentina. Yet their World Cup record at the group stage opener gives cause for caution — Luis de la Fuente's side have failed to win three of their last four opening fixtures, including the 2010 tournament they went on to claim.

There is positive injury news ahead of kick-off, with Lamine Yamal declared fit after recovering from a groin injury he sustained in April during Barcelona's La Liga title campaign. The teenager is expected to feature from the substitutes' bench.

Cape Verde's giant-killing ambition

For Cape Verde, this represents a historic moment — their first appearance at a major international tournament. The West African nation arrive in confident mood after topping their World Cup qualifying group, eliminating perennial contenders Cameroon in the process.

The result of this Group H opener will set the early tone ahead of Saudi Arabia and Uruguay's clash later the same Monday.