ITV has confirmed its full broadcast team for Spain's opening FIFA World Cup fixture against Cape Verde, a Group F clash scheduled to kick off at 5pm UK time at Atlanta Stadium.

Spain enter the tournament as one of the favourites, chasing a second World Cup title, while Cape Verde — ranked 67th in the world by FIFA — face a steep challenge against one of European football's powerhouses. The contrast in stature makes this a compelling curtain-raiser to the day's slate of fixtures.

Presenting from New York

Mark Pougatch will anchor ITV's coverage from New York, joined by a strong panel of pundits in Juan Mata, Emma Hayes, and Ange Postecoglou.

Mata brings direct experience of Spain's golden generation, having been a member of the squad that lifted the World Cup in 2010. The 38-year-old midfielder is currently playing for Melbourne Victory in Australia's A-League — a club that happens to have previously been managed by fellow pundit Postecoglou.

Hayes joins the panel fresh from her successful leap into international management. After 12 years at Chelsea — during which she claimed 16 major honours, including seven Women's Super League titles and five FA Cups — she took charge of the United States Women's national team at the end of the 2023/24 season.

Postecoglou, the Greek-born coach best known in Britain for his spells with Tottenham and Celtic, has been without a club since his stint at Nottingham Forest came to an abrupt end after just 39 days last season. He won none of his eight matches at the City Ground, though the appointment followed his memorable achievement of guiding Spurs to Europa League glory.

Commentary team

Sam Matterface will be on commentary, with Lee Dixon serving as lead summariser. Dixon is a decorated figure in English football, having spent 14 years at Arsenal where he earned four league titles, two FA Cups, and ten major honours in total. He won 22 caps for England but was never selected for a major international tournament.