We now know the ITV commentators, pundits and presenters for Spain and Cape Verde’s opening World Cup fixture.
High-flying Spain will kick off their bid for a second World Cup title with Monday’s Group F encounter against Cape Verde, who sit 67th in FIFA’s international rankings.
The David vs Goliath meeting at Atlanta Stadium is the perfect start to the day’s latest round of fixtures and kicks off at 5pm UK time,
Live coverage will be available in the UK on ITV1 and ITVX with Mark Pougatch presenting from New York alongside Juan Mata, Emma Hayes and Ange Postecoglou.
Former Chelsea and Manchester United playmaker Mata is well-placed to analyse Spain’s World Cup prospects after being part of their 2010 trophy-winning squad.
The 38-year-old is still plying his trade with A-League outfit Melbourne Victory, coincidentally previously managed by one of his fellow pundits in Postecoglou.
Hayes, meanwhile, has made a successful transition to international management as the United States Women Team’s head coach after a success-laden 12 years at Chelsea.
She won 16 major honours including seven Women’s Super League titles and five FA Cups before bowing out from Kingsmeadow at the end of the 2023/24 campaign.
Former Tottenham and Celtic boss Postecoglou has been out of work since his tenure at Nottingham Forest was ended after just 39 days midway through last season.
The Greek-born coach failed to win any of his eight games in charge at the City Ground, which came months after he had guided Spurs to Europa League glory.
Sam Matterface will lead commentary duties with Lee Dixon as lead summariser.
Dixon straddled two successful eras during a 14-year spell with Arsenal, winning four league titles and two FA Cups among his 10 major honours in north London.
He also made 22 appearances for England but never played in a major tournament.
