Spain have come away from their opening game against Switzerland with a loss….yes, this isn’t a miss-print. Although they controlled the game, they lacked a cutting edge in the final third until Torres and Navas were introduced. The build up was too slow in midfield which gave the Swiss ample time for their defensive players to get organised.
This is not the start anyone had envisaged. Although their remaining games should be straightforward they have achieved what only USA have done in the last 2 years and beaten the reigning European Champions. Next up they face Honduras who they must beat emphatically to regain confidence and also re-create the fear factor for their opponents. Coming into the tournament everyone has had them as clear favourites which is clearly something they struggle with. There are a few minor problems with individuals in the squad, Iniesta is not match fit and will need the 3 games in order to hopefully find that.
La Furia Roja will surely qualify through the group but the news will trouble Brazil who would have hoped to top the group and avoid them in the next round. The top managers and teams are not concerned with who they face as they need to beat the best in order to win the championship but Dunga will have taken note of this; Del-Bosque will also be aware what this defeat could mean for his side. Surely Spain cannot fall short like this again….
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