The Real Madrid defender was one of Spain's standout performers in a 3-0 win over Austria, providing two assists, and now has Portugal standing between his country and the quarter-finals.
Speaking in an interview with OKDiario, Cucurella admitted his focus is split between helping Spain reach their World Cup dream and returning to Real Madrid with a few extra days off.
Jose Mourinho, preparing for his first season in charge of the Spanish club, will also be watching the game closely, caught between wanting his players to arrive at pre-season in peak condition and seeing one of his new signings attempt to knock out his own national team.
Asked about the situation, Cucurella kept his sense of humour.
"Hopefully he won't say anything to me," said Cucurella. "He already knows we're going to give it everything and try to win.
"If we win, he'll have to give me a few more days of holiday, so it's double motivation."
Beyond the joke, the defender made clear Spain believe they can still improve as the tournament reaches its decisive stage.
"I think we're still a little way from reaching our maximum level," said Cucurella. "We've been on an upward curve and that's positive because it gives the team confidence too. Against Austria there were minutes of a very good level, but there are also things we need to improve."
Cucurella also spoke about his close friendship with Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who has been strongly linked with a move to Real Madrid.
"At the end of the day, he's my friend and you always want the best for your friends," said Cucurella. "I don't know what's going to happen. Whether he comes or not, we're going to keep being friends, we're going to keep having that contact. Let him decide what's best for him and be happy, I think that's the most important thing."
For Cucurella, the biggest challenge facing Spain is sustaining their level for the full 90 minutes, something the side struggled with in Los Angeles.
"We have to hold that level throughout the whole match," said Cucurella. "I think that's a little bit what we could be criticised for."
He also spoke with respect about Portugal and in particular Cristiano Ronaldo, whom he still regards as a player capable of deciding any match, though he insisted Spain fully believe in their own chances.
"We're a great national team, we have very good players and we can play a great match," said Cucurella.
Dallas will decide who continues dreaming of the World Cup, with Mourinho following the match from a distance as one of his future players attempts to give Spain — and himself — something to celebrate before pre-season begins.