Spain Sit Pretty But the Work in Group H Isn't Done

Spain are the team to beat in Group H. Seven points from three matches, a goal difference of plus-five, and clear air between themselves and the chasing pack — the Spanish have done everything right in the opening phase of qualifying and sit in the most enviable position in their section.

The picture beneath them is tight and unresolved. Cape Verde Islands occupy second on three points, while Uruguay and Saudi Arabia are level on two points apiece, separated only by goal difference. That congestion means the battle for the places behind Spain will be fierce, and the outcomes of those matches will shape the pressure Spain face heading into the final rounds.

Spain have no fixture listed in the current window, which means they watch and wait while their rivals play. That is not necessarily a bad thing. Rest and clarity are useful commodities at this stage, and Spain will have the chance to see exactly what is required of them when they do return to action.

To seal qualification outright, Spain will need to keep accumulating points in the matches still to come. With four points already separating them from third place and a superior goal difference over everyone in the group, the leaders are firmly in control of their own destiny. The home attack and defensive unit will simply need to maintain the standards already set.

The main threat to Spain's serene progress is complacency. On paper, no side in Group H currently looks equipped to overhaul them, but football's qualifying rounds have a habit of producing surprises. Cape Verde Islands and a Uruguay side that will feel they have more to give represent the most credible obstacles. For now, though, Group H belongs to Spain.