FIFA World Cup 2014: Reigning world champions Spain fight for survival

The spectre of a humiliating World Cup group-stage exit hangs over champions Spain ahead of today’s game with Chile in Rio de Janeiro. If Spain lose and Holland avoid defeat against Australia, Vicente del Bosque’s side will join Brazil (1966), France (2002) and Italy (2010) to be among defending champions to leave early. The same results would take Chile through. Jorge Sampaoli’s aggressive, hard-working team have lost only twice in their last 16 outings.

Vincent Del Bosque has suggested that he will make “two or three changes”, with goalkeeper Iker Casillas’s position under particular scrutiny. However, there is bound to be a debate about whether Pepe Reina can be an able deputy as David de Gea struggles with a muscle problem.

The midfield also lacked the sense of urgency and failed to put pressure when deprived of possession. The Dutch were able to counter attack with ease. It might not have been the best idea to use the aging Xavi Hernandez, Xabi Alonso and Andres Iniesta all together. Pedro Rodriguez and Juan Mata could also come into the starting XI to rectify this. It would also not be surprising if Gerrard Pique gives way for Javi Martinez.


Sampaoli could elect to bring midfielder Francisco Silva into his team and switch to a three-man defence. Another option would involve Silva replacing Jorge Valdivia, which would see Arturo Vidal move forward from midfield to support strikers Eduardo Vargas and Alexis Sanchez.

There are concerns that Vidal is not back to peak fitness as he had a quiet display against Australia.