SPAIN FIFA World Cup History For decades the defending champions had been the perennial underachievers of footballs World Cup. Despite having made the knock-out stages at eight previous finals, 2010 saw the Spanish transform themselves into one of the true superpowers of world football. Spain made their World Cup debut in 1934, and have competed in no fewer than 13 previous World Cups. Despite having produced some of footballs greatest players, Spain were for years thought to be suffering from a quarter finals jinx, having been knocked out at the last eight stage on four previous occasions. Spains 2010 victory was nothing short of phenomenal, with the fluidity of Spains passing, and the embarrassment of riches in their midfield too much for any side to handle. A 1-nil victory over a very good Netherlands side in the final ensured that the Spanish could finally dine at the top table of world football. Manager: Vicente Del Bosque 63 year old Del Bosque may be one of world footballs oldest managers, but he has experienced an illustrious career both as a club and an international manager. The former Real Madrid, and Besiktas manager has found great success in the Spanish job leading his country to World Cup glory last time out, and successfully defending Spains European crown in 2012. Along with success at international level, Del Bosque guided Real Madrid through one of their most successful eras winning two Uefa Champions League titles, two La Liga championships, a Spanish Super Cup, a Uefa Super Cup, and an Intercontinental Cup. Captain: Iker Casillas Despite not having officially named their captain, Spain have of late been ably led by dependable Real Madrid goal keeper Iker Casillas. The Real Madrid shot stopper has been one of the finest goalkeepers in the world for the best part of a decade, and is one of the first names on Vicente Del Bosques team sheet. Casillas will likely be a key figure if Spain are to repeat their 2010 heroics. Player to watch: Diego Costa The deadly front man has been in a rich vein of form this season appearing for high flying Atletico Madrid, as the Spanish side have marched all the way to the Champions League final. Costa, who is set for a big money move to Chelsea this summer, has scored 27 goals in 33 La Liga appearances this season. If Costa can hit form in Brazil then it will take a special side to stop the Spanish. Spain in the media Spain have such a strong squad that world class players such as Juan Mata, David Villa, and Fernando Torres are likely to miss out on the final cut. The Telegraph 23 year old Bayern Munich midfielder Thiago Alcantara has been ruled out of Spains World Cup squad after tearing knee ligament. The Guardian Expected Progress: Final #june
Posted on: Sun, 01 Jun 2014 21:07:30 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015