The Spanish U-21 national team is gearing up for some important matches, and two promising young defenders from top clubs have earned their spot. Iván Fresneda from Sporting and Rafael Obrador from Benfica are both on the roster, a clear sign their talent is getting noticed.
Coach David Gordo has picked a strong 23-player squad. These young “hopes” are set to play a friendly game against Norway on October 10. Soon after, they’ll face Finland on October 14. That second match is part of the qualification rounds for the 2027 European Championship. Both games will be played on Spanish soil, giving the team a home advantage. The players will all meet up on Monday at noon to begin preparations.
Fresneda has been busy this season, playing eight games for Sporting already. He even started in a big Champions League match away at Napoli, showing his growing importance. Obrador’s time on the pitch for Benfica has been less frequent; he’s only played once this season, coming in as a substitute on August 23. Despite the difference in playing time, both have caught the coach’s eye for the national squad. The Norway game will take place at the Pedro Escartín stadium in Guadalajara, while the Finland qualifier is set for the Castalia stadium in Castellón de la Plana.
