Spain's 16-Player Squad Announced for World Cup Qualifiers Against Ukraine

Spain's Basketball Roster for 2027 World Cup Qualifying Matches

According to Главком: Spanish national team head coach Chus Mateo has selected a 16-player squad for two upcoming 2027 FIBA World Cup qualifying games against Ukraine. The team's training camp will begin in Guadalajara on February 23, 2026, with the first match scheduled for February 27 at the Xiaomi Arena in Riga. These qualifiers are part of a lengthy process to secure a spot in the prestigious global tournament.

Of the 16 players, 14 will travel to Riga for the first game against Ukraine, which tips off at 3:00 PM Kyiv time. The second match between Ukraine and Spain is set for March 2 in Oviedo at 9:30 PM. The roster features six new players compared to the squad assembled last November, with Jaime Fernández named as team captain. Notably absent from the team will be:

• Alberto Díaz
• Miquel Salvó
• Great Osobor
• Dani Díez

The full Spanish national team roster is as follows:

• Izan Almansa (Real Madrid)
• Francisco Alonso (Río Breogán)
• Ferran Bassas (Manresa)
• Pep Busquets (Girona)
• Álvaro Cárdenas (Peristeri)
• Luis Costa (Granada)
• Jaime Fernández (Tenerife)
• Miguel González (Zaragoza)
• Fran Guerra (Tenerife)
• Sergi Martínez (Girona)
• Isaac Nogués (Valencia)
• Pierre Oriola (Manresa)
• Oriol Paulí (Lleida)
• Álex Reyes (Manresa)
• Eric Vila (Gran Canaria)
• Santi Yusta (Zaragoza)

Ukraine's Performance in the Qualifiers

Ukraine has shown strong form in the qualifiers so far, defeating Denmark 88:71 in the second round and securing a victory over Georgia in their first qualifying match with a score of 79:92. Oleksandr Kovliar was a key player, scoring 31 points in the game against Georgia. After two matches, Ukraine sits among the top two teams in their group. The next qualifying window will take place in February 2026.

These upcoming fixtures are crucial for both sides, as the results could significantly impact the standings in their World Cup qualifying group. Ukraine's strong start has boosted their chances of advancing, while Spain, a traditional basketball powerhouse, will aim to assert its dominance despite the roster changes. The matches promise to be tense and intriguing as both teams pursue success on the international stage.