Obviously everybody knows everything they could possibly know about Spain. They are currently the most dominant nation in football winning the last World Cup and the last two European Championships. A second World Cup would really establish themselves as the finest national side of all time, even better than Pele’s Brazil and Maradona’s Argentina. The Spanish side is built on an impressive passing philosophy best showed by Barcelona’s Xavi and Andres Iniesta, while the other midfielders of Xabi Alonso, Sergio Busquets and Cesc Fabregas aren’t bad either.
They have been placed in a difficult group alongside Chile, Holland and Australia, but sometimes it’s better to be given a test in the group stage to ensure players aren’t complacent against ‘lesser’ nations. Although there will be some sides that Spain fear this summer, there will be no nation that will want to meet Spain in Brazil as the holders have the experience and know how in international tournaments. There are not many nations who have that in their squad. This will be a huge benefit, especially in the latter stages of the tournament.
Everybody doubted Spain’s ability to retain their European Championship crown and there will be similar comments in the run up to this summer’s festival of football. The Spanish proved the doubters wrong in 2012 and they have the ability to do so again this summer. The country has had a fine domestic season with three sides competing for the title, while they also have two sides in the Champions League football. They are one of the favourites to win in Brazil and they could top off a fantastic Spanish season with another World Cup.
Strengths
Spain have a lot of strengths, but their main advantage is their playing style. Their passing style and their ability to retain possession will tire sides out, especially in the heat of Brazil. They will have the best midfield in the tournament, which means they will be able to dominate any game, regardless of the opposition, if they are in good form. Although they focus on retaining possession, their midfield can create chances at will, especially with the midfield duo Xavi and Iniesta.
They have incredible strength in depth with the likes of David Silva, Alvaro Negredo, Jesus Navas and Cesc Fabregas set to miss out on the starting eleven in Brazil. These players would easily get into the majority of national sides, but Spain have an incredible pool of talent. This will be a huge benefit as they will be able to cope with injuries and suspensions without seeing the quality of the side diminish.
The Spanish side will have a new weapon in their arsenal this summer as Brazilian born Diego Costa looks set to lead the line after turning down his nation of birth for the World champions. He will offer the side more of a threat in the penalty box as his physical nature and his clinical finishing will make him a difficult proposition for the majority of the sides in Brazil this summer. The main question is whether the booing and jeering from the locals affects his game, or not?
Weaknesses
The only weakness that could hinder Spain this summer is their over-confidence. It’s obvious when watching Barcelona that sides have got used to their style of play and that the players need to continue playing at the top of their abilities to win matches. Barcelona have declined over recent years, but they still have a side that should be winning trophies every season. Spain need to continue to stay committed to the cause as a slight dip in performance will be capitalised on. Some people may suggest the climate will be an issue, but i don’t see that to be the case.
Coach
Vincent Del Bosque has achieved incredible things while coaching Spain including winning both the World Cup and the European Championship on occasion. He has carried on the work done by Luis Aragones and is reaping the rewards after a decorated domestic career. His philosophy of passing the ball has created the blueprint for Spain’s success, while they also like to play with high intensity to force their way through the other team.
World Cup History
The Spanish have ran out winners in 2010, but they only managed to get to the quarter finals in previous tournaments. They will be keen to add more to ensure their legacy stays in shape. They won all but one match in South Africa, and they’ll want to improve on that next month.
Key Player
Andres Iniesta will be the key player for Spain this summer as he will look to dictate play from the midfield. He will be very disappointing with the season at Barcelona and the World Cup offers him the perfect platform to show that he remains one of the best players in the world. With Xavi getting older, the pressure will be on Iniesta this summer to produce both goals and assists from the centre of the park. He will probably be given a license to roam forward as the other midfielders Busquets, Xavi and Xabi Alonso all like to sit deep, while Iniesta isn’t known to shirk attacking responsibility. He is entering his prime, therefore he should be out to impress in Brazil.
Verdict
I think they’ll get out of the group, but Chile and Holland will offer tough early tests for the holders. Their squad is incredibly strong and their style of play still causes sides trouble, despite it being so well known. I don’t think they’ll retain their trophy, but they will certainly come close.
Prediction: Semi-finals – Among the favourites