SPAIN LEAD THE WAY

Spain have been one of the best teams in the world over the last few years. They have been able to win World Cup and European championships by playing style of football that has won them many plaudits.

Spain rarely play the long ball style of football, as they resort to passing their opposition to death. Ahead of the Confederations cup, Spain manager Vicente del Bosque has said that he will be sticking to the philosophy of the team. Spain recently could manage only a 1-1 draw with minnows Finland in the group match.

As a result, there has been speculation that players within the Spanish national team are starting to doubt themselves. They think that the opposition have found a way to stop them from winning matches. Spain will be taking on France in a crucial World Cup qualifying match, which could probably determine the winner of the group. Spain currently trail France by two points, and if they lose this match, they could be forced to go through the play-offs.

Spain certainly need a victory from this tough away match, but they will not be changing their philosophy in order to do so according to del Bosque. Spain are likely to welcome back Xavi and Alonso for this match.

"We are not anxious at all. It is logical to reflect after what has happened in our last two games. Despite dominating completely we couldn't score more than once, so it is understandable that people will have doubts. But we mustn't get nervous, we must stay calm, open up the pitch and use the width. We do need to find solutions but this will be a much more open game. They have players with pace and the ambition to play football," said del Bosque, who has won World Cup and European titles.