Contents
By Graham Ruthven
Point to prove
While nobody has written Spain off as World Cup contenders, the European champions have a point to prove against Saudi Arabia after their insipid 0-0 draw against Cape Verde. Indeed, Luis de la Fuente will expect much better from his team.
Spain had 27 shots without scoring against Cape Verde, a joint-record number in World Cup history. The pre-tournament favourites must demonstrate a much sharper edge to make the most of their superior possession and territorial advantage in the opposition half.
Saudi Arabia could be difficult to break down if their performance against Uruguay is anything to go by. The 2034 World Cup hosts defended their penalty box well and posed a threat from set pieces in a display that was similar to how Cape Verde frustrated Spain.
At some point, Spain are expected to click into gear at this World Cup. However, they could face a similar test to the one they failed to overcome against Cape Verde. Saudi Arabia will recycle the game plan that worked so well for the Africans.
Key players
Spain need Lamine Yamal available. Without the Barcelona winger fit from the beginning, the European champions lacked a direct threat, making them much easier to play against. By the time Yamal was introduced in the second half, Cape Verde were closing up space in their low block.
In central midfield, Pedri, Rodri and Fabián Ruiz will give Spain control of the ball in the centre of the pitch while Ferran Torres could be moved into the centre forward position after starting against Cape Verde on the right wing.
Marc Cucurella gave Spain a way to get in behind down the left side while Aymeric Laporte was their dominant defensive presence at the back.
Salem Al-Dawsari could pose the biggest threat to the Spanish goal down the left side. The Al-Hilal attacker scored the winning goal for Saudi Arabia against Argentina at the 2022 World Cup and is accustomed to delivering on the big stage.
Realistically, Mohammed Al Owais will need to be in top form for Saudi Arabia to take anything from their encounter with Spain. The goalkeeper made a number of big saves in the draw against Uruguay, but was also at fault for the equalising goal.
Team news
Yamal’s fitness remains a big talking point as does Nico Williams. The Athletic Club winger only came off the bench for the final few minutes of the draw against Cape Verde and is still searching for sharpness at the tournament.
Otherwise, de la Fuente has a full squad to choose from, meaning he could afford to shake up his forward line to ensure Spain have more joy in front of goal.
Similarly, Georgios Donis also has no new injury or suspension concerns. Saudi Arabia will have the license to field a full-strength team against the European champions.
Prediction
The European champions should find a way to win in Atlanta: Spain 2-0 Saudi Arabia.
(Cover image from IMAGO)
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