It has been 8 years since Andres Iniesta’s iconic winner in the 116th-minute of the additional time in Johannesburg’s FNB Stadium. The Spanish squad has undergone transformation in terms of the influx of new players, the likes of Isco, Alcantra and Morata gives the team some young blood, who can carry on the legacy of ‘tiki-taka’ football.
The 2014 World Cup ended for Spain ended after the team got eliminated in the group stage, the 5-1 crushing defeat against Netherlands was a reality check for the Spaniards.
This World Cup, the team is reinforced with better tactics, which was evident in the International friendlies on their road to Russia 2018. The Spainiards have not suffered a single loss in the 2017- 18 calendar year, beating 2014 World Cup finalists 6-1 in March this year. The team looks sharp and ready to take on FIFA World Cup 2018.
FINAL 23 MAN SQUAD:
Goalkeepers: Kepa Arrizabalaga (Athletic Bilbao), David De Gea (Manchester United), Pepe Reina (Napoli)
Defenders: Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea), Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid), Jordi Alba (Barcelona), Nacho (Real Madrid), Nacho Monreal (Arsenal), Alvaro Odriozola (Real Sociedad), Gerard Pique (Barcelona), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid)
Midfielders: Isco (Real Madrid), Thiago Alcantara (Bayern Munich), Sergio Busquets (Barcelona), David Silva (Manchester City), Andres Iniesta (Barcelona), Saul Niguez (Atletico Madrid), Koke (Atletico Madrid)
Forwards: Marco Asensio (Real Madrid), Iago Aspas (Celta Vigo), Diego Costa (Atletico Madrid), Rodrigo (Valencia), Lucas Vazquez (Real Madrid)
Group B: Portugal, Morroco , Iran, Spain,
Favourites: Spain
Strengths– Spain’s midfield is loaded with talent and they will look to leave no stone unturned to use their resources and exploit the opposition. Quick, intricate passing is Spain’s modus operandi. On their day, they can leave any defense baffled with their ‘tiki-taka’ style football. Spain’s number 1 goalkeeper is one to look out for, David De Gea won the ‘Premier League Golden Glove’ with 18 clean sheets and is currently regarded by several pundits as the world’s best goalkeeper.
Weakness– Spain’s defence has proved to be very ‘shaky’ at times. The recent game against Germany in the international friendlies in March was largely dominated by Spain, who scored an early goal but could not capitalize on the lead and higher possession. Germany made the most of their limited chances and the game ended in a draw.
Opportunities– With Isco, Thiago Alcantra and David Silva all finishing off 2017-18 season with stellar performances, the Spaniards are likely to have the best midfield trio from one nation at the World Cup. Something the Spanish can make the most off.
Threats- Brazil and Germany. While the former team will come with an attacking mindset, the latter will has the image of implementing masterclass masterclass tactics.