Spain has traditionally choked and been perennial underachievers at the World Cup. However, this year it will be different. They are the reigning European champions and they have a phenomenal and well-balanced team. They also gained some experience playing in South Africa at last summer's Confederations Cup. So they know what to expect in terms of the physical environment. They play exciting soccer. Xavi is the world's best midfielder with an immaculate touch. If Iniesta is healthy, Spain also will field the world's second best midfielder. Their midfield is so strong that Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas, who is one of the best players in the English Premier League, is a substitute. They have strong attackers in Villa and Torres who have a knack of scoring in big games. Their achilles heel is their central defense, however. I have never been a big fan of Puyol but their goalkeeper does more than compensate for their defensive liabilities.
I predict that they'll play The Netherlands in the final.
¡Viva España!
I really hope you're right, Magnus, but I wasn't too impressed by Spain in their friendlies... and hey, they lost to an unknown team from North America last time they played in SA. Brazil, on the other hand, look utterly astonishing.
ReplyDeleteNo no no. Nederland defeats Argentina in the Final. Spain loses to Argentina in the Semis.
ReplyDeletehmmmm!
ReplyDeleteThat was quite impressive from Spain today, eh! I mean all that possession and impressive shots on goal only to lose to a not-so-impressive goal!
World Champions? I don't think so. I agree with Simon. Spain was not impressive at all during the international friendlies. Even today against the Swiss, they failed to fully impress and capitalise on the chances they created. So them winning the World cup, I dont see it happening!
Germany on the other hand did state their case loud and clear considering Australia is not one team to scoff at. But my faith lies with the Dutch....