Precarious Spain must peak at the right time
6 Dec 2013 4:21 AM IST
However, in contrast to the build up to their recent triumphs, doubts surround the number one ranked side in the world’s chances of retaining the trophy they won for the first time in South Africa three-and-a-half years ago.
Whilst a series of unconvincing friendly results is nothing new during Vicente del Bosque’s five-year spell in charge, it is La Roja’s lacklustre performances in a number of recent competitive games that have caused concern. Spain were made to look bedraggled by an energetic young Brazil side roared on by a fervent home crowd in a 3-0 win for the hosts at the Confederations Cup in June.
Whilst the pre-cursor to the main event isn’t always a reliable gage - Spain were beaten by the United States in the 2009 Confederations Cup before returning to triumph in South Africa a year later - it was an insight as to just how tough it will be knock off Luiz Felipe Scolari’s Selecao on home soil.
Moreover, the odds suggest the bookies also see Germany and Argentina as more credible candidates if Brazil are to fail to be crowned world champions for a sixth time. Spain’s qualification campaign wasn’t stellar. Del Bosque’s men conceded late equalisers to drop points at home to Finland and France, whilst the former Real Madrid boss criticised his side’s lack of tempo as they struggled past Belarus and Georgia to book their place in World Cup.
The main issue arises up front where Del Bosque has tried a number of options without hitting upon a preferred solution. Roberto Soldado, Alvaro Negredo, Cesc Fabregas, David Villa and Michu were all used in central striking roles during qualification, but Del Bosque’s search for a number nine has led to Brazilian-born Atletico Madrid striker Diego Costa declaring to play for his adopted land.
Costa is yet to make his Spain debut after missing friendlies against Guinea and South Africa due to injury. However, Del Bosque has admitted that he would feel almost obligated to select Costa after the latter turned his back on Brazil to represent the world champions.
Whilst a series of unconvincing friendly results is nothing new during Vicente del Bosque’s five-year spell in charge, it is La Roja’s lacklustre performances in a number of recent competitive games that have caused concern. Spain were made to look bedraggled by an energetic young Brazil side roared on by a fervent home crowd in a 3-0 win for the hosts at the Confederations Cup in June.
Whilst the pre-cursor to the main event isn’t always a reliable gage - Spain were beaten by the United States in the 2009 Confederations Cup before returning to triumph in South Africa a year later - it was an insight as to just how tough it will be knock off Luiz Felipe Scolari’s Selecao on home soil.
Moreover, the odds suggest the bookies also see Germany and Argentina as more credible candidates if Brazil are to fail to be crowned world champions for a sixth time. Spain’s qualification campaign wasn’t stellar. Del Bosque’s men conceded late equalisers to drop points at home to Finland and France, whilst the former Real Madrid boss criticised his side’s lack of tempo as they struggled past Belarus and Georgia to book their place in World Cup.
The main issue arises up front where Del Bosque has tried a number of options without hitting upon a preferred solution. Roberto Soldado, Alvaro Negredo, Cesc Fabregas, David Villa and Michu were all used in central striking roles during qualification, but Del Bosque’s search for a number nine has led to Brazilian-born Atletico Madrid striker Diego Costa declaring to play for his adopted land.
Costa is yet to make his Spain debut after missing friendlies against Guinea and South Africa due to injury. However, Del Bosque has admitted that he would feel almost obligated to select Costa after the latter turned his back on Brazil to represent the world champions.
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