Just under two years ago, Spain’s players trudged off the pitch at the Stade De France, Paris. They had just been outclassed by Italy in the Euro 2016 Last 16 game. The scoreline flattered Spain, with David De Gea producing a string of fine saves to keep the scoreline respectable. For many, it was the final nail in the coffin for the philosophy of the double European champions and 2010 World Cup winners.
23 months or so after that night in Paris, Spain go to Russia on something of an upward curve. They have not lost a single game since that defeat in the Euros. Along the way, they have hammered Argentina 6-1 in a friendly and also got some revenge over Italy by finishing ahead of them in qualifying to ensure that the Azzurri will not be at the World Cup for the first time in 60 years.
Lopetgui hasn’t overhauled the squad:
Unlike most teams who suffer a fall like Spain (as defending champions, they crashed out of the 2014 World Cup at the group stage), La Furia Roja did not have a major overhaul. Of course, some personnel have changed. Vincent Del Bosque has been replaced by Julen Lopetegui, whereas Xavi is no longer the heartbeat of the side and Iniesta will have a reduced role. But a strong nucleus of the Euro 2016 side still remains – De Gea, Pique, Ramos, Busquets, Silva.
If anything has changed, it’s Spain’s philosophy. There is less emphasis on the suffocating, possession-based tiki-taka. Somewhat like Barcelona’s evolution, Spain might see the ball less but are more efficient with it. Trying to score the ‘perfect’ goal is no longer the main tactic. Indeed, it might sound sacrilegious to say it, but Spain’s most admirable quality might just be their defence. Just three goals conceded in qualifying for Russia led many to ask the question: is there a better centre-back pairing than Ramos and Pique?
Spain, Germany and Brazil lead World Cup odds:
Spain have been installed as third-favourites for the World Cup, coming in at odds of 6/1 (Bet365). In betting terms, that’s a hefty distance behind Brazil (4/1) and Germany (9/2), although those odds can be possibly be boosted with these latest World Cup Betting Offers And Enhanced Odds.
Indeed, odds don’t always tell us the exact picture of where a team should be. For example, many would believe Belgium (11/1) have a greater chance of winning than a struggling Argentina (9/1), so too will many feel that Spain should be right up with Brazil and Germany, perhaps even installed as co-favourites.
Isco and Costa may be key to Spain’s success:
For balance, it should be pointed out that Spain do have some weaknesses. It looks like Diego Costa will get the nod as Spain’s lone striker, but, despite his undoubted quality, the Atlético Madrid man can sometimes frustrate. There is also the problem of putting too much pressure on the shoulders of Real Madrid’s Isco. He is, of course, an exciting talent, but if he plays badly the team tends to suffer as a result.
Overall, Spain’s resurgence has gone relatively unnoticed. They have not been given the pre-tournament scrutiny equal to that of Brazil, Germany or 13/2 shots France. But other nations should underestimate Spain at their peril. They may show us all that perceived crises in top-level football do not always require an overreaction. Sometimes minor surgery is all that is required.
