After being routed in their opening match against the Dutch, Reigning champions Spain are aiming to avoid a hat-trick of defeats against Chile on Wednesday.
After being routed in their opening match against the Dutch, Reigning champions Spain are aiming to avoid a hat-trick of defeats against Chile on Wednesday.
Another loss after their 5-1 thrashing would almost certainly end Spain’s title defense. What’s more, an early exit from the group-stages would make Spain the third straight European winner of the World Cup to flop in the group stage as defending champion.
With Chile as opponents, Spanish coach Vincent del Bosque can make a host of changes to his side that lost to Netherlands.
Spain:
Strengths – If Del Bosque brings in new faces for the clash against Chile, we might get to see a fresh and vibrant Spain. Santi Cazorla, Juan Mata, Cesc Fabregas and David Villa might start the match and would give an impetus to this fluctuating ‘Spanish Armada’.
Weakness – Defence needs to buck as soon as possible. With Chile as opponents, the South American side could leave the full-backs exposed and also threaten them on the set pieces.
Chile:
Strengths – Their win over the Aussies means Chile coach Jorge Sampaoli could start with the same side. This side is known for its blistering pace and quality and could utilise the direct running of forwards Alexis Sanchez and Eduardo Vargas to its fullest.
Weakness – Their star midfielder, Arturo Vidal is still not 100 pc match fit. Six weeks after a knee operation, the Juventus midfielder lacked cohesion and drive that made him the one of the most combative midfielders in the modern game.
