B-teams in La Liga 2: Problem or catalyst for Spain’s 2026 World Cup win?

Real Sociedad were in action in Vigo last weekend – not in La Liga but in La Liga 2, in what is currently the only fixture between two B-teams in Spain’s second tier. The presence of reserve teams has long been a source of fierce discussion and debate within Spanish football, which remains deeply divided over their inclusion. So what are the pros and cons of integrating B-teams into the national football pyramid? Did it really serve as a catalyst for the Spanish team’s 2026 World Cup win in North America? And how does the system compare to other leading European nations? Plus, we look at the rules governing B-team involvement and tell the unlikely story of when Real Madrid Castilla played in the old European Cup Winners’ Cup. Join us on Patreon for a Monday bumper bonus podcast focusing on all things Asian football, from the brand-new AFC Nations League that was recently unveiled to Indonesia’s unlikely hero as they end their 35-year wait for a trophy in the FIFA ASEAN Cup. Check out the range of Spanish shirts at our partner Golaco Kits here. Get 10% off using the discount code SWEEPER10. Chapters: 00:00 – Intro 01:31 – A brief history of B-teams in Spain 04:10 – The rules governing their involvement 07:30 – The pros and cons of reserve teams 13:05 – Celta Fortuna v. Real Sociedad B 15:25 – Other leading European leagues 19:58 – The ultimate B-team football quiz Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices