2010 World Cup last 16 preview: Spain v Portugal
The final match of the last 16 at the World Cup is set to serve up a footballing treat.
The only thing that is neighbourly about these two is the geography. In a rivalry that stretches back nearly 90 years, Portugal have been playing catch-up to Spain, who have a massive head-to-head record against Portugal, with 15 wins to Portugal’s five.
Spain are second in the Fifa world rankings and Portugal third, and when they play it will for the first time on a World Cup stage. This match is undoubtedly the biggest in their joint history.
Spain were the pre-tournament favourites to win the World Cup following their success at Euro 2008. A defeat to Switzerland in their opening game raised doubts, but comprehensive wins against Honduras and Chile have reignited their fire. The quick style of football the Spanish play, with a series of short-passing stretching opposition defences, has yet to be seen fully so far.
Surprisingly, Spain manager Vicente del Bosque was given a vote of confidence after that defeat to the Swiss. The European champions avoided playing Brazil by finishing top, but Portugal is just as hard as Brazil according to Del Bosque. “Portugal concern me. We've seen how they controlled the game against Brazil, hitting them on the counter-attack. Portugal are going to be a very tough side. I take no satisfaction from the fact we're up against Portugal instead of Brazil. They are both great national teams,” said Del Bosque.
The 59-year-old is looking forward to the clash with the Portuguese. “Portugal are a great team and they’re about more than just Cristiano Ronaldo. Yes it’s true that Cristiano is one of their best players, but we mustn’t forget that the Portuguese are the only team that still haven’t conceded a goal at this World Cup. That proves that they’re a solid unit and not just a collection of individuals. Their game is based around defensive solidity, pace and counter-attacking, as well as having very skilful players. I foresee a very difficult game, like they all will be for the rest of the competition. Only the best teams are left in it now.”
Fernando Torres has failed to turn up so far in this tournament after returning back from a lengthy injury, but the Liverpool No.9 has vowed to come good and recover to full fitness. “I'm still lacking a bit, it's not easy to return after an operation. I think I'm still a little away from being one hundred per cent, although I'm close.”
A partnership up front with David Villa is one of the best in Europe, and Torres believes his side are prepared for the rest of the campaign. “We're ready for whatever comes. We are where we wanted to be, living the opportunity that we dreamed of. We only need to look ahead, be optimistic, positive and show the people what we are capable of. We have confidence in ourselves. [However] anything can happen, so we will need to be more focused than ever. We've all seen the level that this team have and we know that we haven't reached that yet.”
Portugal came through their group with Brazil, winning 7-0 against North Korea and enduring goalless draws against Brazil and Ivory Coast. Portugal have yet to concede a goal at the World Cup, but coach Carlos Queiroz is taking nothing for granted. “This shows that we are playing good defence. But we have to keep our feet on the ground because now the knock-out round begins and any mistakes can send you home. But now we will prepare to be at our best in our next match. The important thing is that we play how we know,” said Quieroz.
Ronaldo will once again lead the charge for Portugal. Another player who will be just as important is Simão, and he says Portugal fear no one. “They're one of the best teams in the world. But it's 50-50. Without showing them a lack of respect, we're not scared at all. We've got a great team too. And to become better, we have to beat Spain. They're champions of Europe, but we have our own qualities,” said Simão.
The Atlético Madrid winger believes Ronaldo must be allowed to play a free role. “My opinion is that Cristiano must be free on the pitch. But Carlos Queiroz, who knew him well at Manchester United, knows that, everyone knows that,” he said.
Xabi Alonso is a doubt for the Spanish with a sprained ankle, while Raul Albiol is out with ankle ligament damage. Deco returns for Portugal, while Danny is likely to miss the match with a bruised leg.
Portugal have shown glimpses of playing good football in their three matches, and they are capable of tackling Spain if they are on their game. Two nations who like to knock the ball around could result in a lot of goals.
Prediction: Spain 3 Portugal 2
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