Defending Champions Spain take on a spirited Chilean side fully knowing that yet another repeat of the shocking performance against Netherlands will surely mean that the La Roja will be kicked out of the World Cup in the group stages. Spain beat Chile 2-1 in South Africa four years ago, but it very much looks like a different ball game for the Red Armade who simply can’t put a foot wrong at the Maracana in two days time. Vicente Del Bosque has hinted that he will make changes to his team for the pivotal clash.
“We’ll possibly make changes, but not a lot,” Del Bosque told a press conference at the Maracanã, four days after his side opened their title defence with a chastening 5-1 loss to the Netherlands. “There are 12 players who haven’t played, who have the level, who have the prestige, who play for great clubs in great championships, and maybe we’ll give them the possibility (of playing).”
Can the World Champions get out jail and script a golden comeback to have any chances of qualifying or will Xavi and co bear the brunt of yet another ignominy of disdain. Here is Spain’s strongest possible eleven against Chile.
Goalkeeping:
Real Madrid captain Iker Casillas had a forgettable game against the Dutch and the skipper must lead by example when he steps up against Chile. Casillas presented Van Persie an open net after failing to control the ball from a back pass while his positioning was surely on question when Stephan De Vrij scored Netherlands’ third of the encounter. David De Gea has been ruled out for the game and there were suggestions that Pepe Reina would man the sticks but Del Bosque should keep faith on the Bernabeu legend.
Defenders:
An unchanged backline will see Cesar Azpilicueta at right back while Jordi Alba featuring in the left back role. Sergio Ramos and Gerrard Pique would have nightmares featuring Arjen Robben and the Real Madrid- Barcelona pair need to be at their best against the pace and trickery of Alexis Sanchez who can stretch the defense all by himself. Both the centre backs need to make sure that they are confident on the ball and must look to build and play out from the defense.
Midfield:
The back four will have ample help from Sergio Busquets acting as the screen, but the Barcelona holding midfielder had a shocker against the Dutch and should quickly try and put it behind him. Xabi Alonso will have to pick out his marauding killer balls from the deep with players in front of him running with pace rather than get stagnant on the ball. David Silva looks set to play the number ten role while Iniesta will start out wide left. However with all due respect Xavi must be dropped for Pedro as the latter can inject more pace on the right wing looking to cut in with every opportunity.
Strikeforce:
Diego Costa faltered to deceive against the Netherlands, however the soon to be Chelsea man was lucky to win a dubious penalty in the opening few exchanges. The £32m rated striker hardly impacted the game after that as he was relegated to a mere spectator. Fernando Torres too missed a howler with the goal at his mercy after coming on from the bench. The Chelsea star might not be expected to be given a change once again with David Villa to be relied on this time. Costa might start if Del Bosque eventually decides not to play Fabregas as a false nine in this big encounter with much depending on how the midfield is able to sustain the relentless Chilean pressure off the ball.
