In Atlanta for the second match of the World Cup, Spain is dealing with something almost unprecedented for the group led by Luis de la Fuente: collection.
After the unexpected draw in the Group H debut, against Cape Verde, this Sunday’s (21st), at 1pm, in Group H, gained more importance.
One of the criticisms made after the 0-0 against the African team was precisely for the celebrated midfield sector, accused of slowness and lack of depth in the first game.
“I find this debate strange. Spain’s midfield doesn’t slow down the game”, commented Martín Zubimendi, an Arsenal player who was on the bench in Spain’s debut. “We are very mobile players, with the ability to play with one or two touches,” he said.
Zubimendi is Rodri’s most immediate reserve, one of those criticized against Cape Verde, who formed the middle with Fabián Ruiz, Gavi and Pedri.
The Arsenal athlete came to the defense of his colleague, who was voted the best in the world playing for Manchester City.
“What can I say about him? He showed his value at City and in the national team. We can’t criticize him for anything. He’s had better games, but we can’t criticize him.”
After the first round, three Spanish players were among the four with the most successful passes in the competition: Rodri (116), Cubarsí (107) and Laporte (106). The trio was only behind Vitinha, from Portugal, with 121.
Group H started off in a stalemate, with all teams with 1 point —Uruguay and Saudi Arabia drew 1-1. Uruguay and Cape Verde also face each other this Sunday, at 7pm, in Miami Gardens.
The unexpected Spanish result against the team that was considered the weakest in the group before the start of the World Cup could make De la Fuente accelerate the selection of his not-so-secret weapon: Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s star.
The 18-year-old attacking midfielder was a substitute on his debut and played just over 20 minutes in the final part of the match. He has not played since April due to a thigh injury and groin discomfort.
“I’m fine, I feel fine, but it’s too early [para jogar 90 minutos]it’s unnecessary, I have an adaptation process, it’s not the time to play a whole match, but I can play as many minutes as the manager wants”, said the teenage star in preparation for the clash.
De la Fuente admitted that he should increase Yamal’s time to around 45 minutes. However, it remains a mystery whether Barcelona’s idol will start playing or enter in the second half — which is most likely.
On the Saudi Arabian side, Greek coach Georgios Donis intensified his ball-exit training with the defense, anticipating pressure from his rival.
The one who also trained hard was goalkeeper Al-Owais, a player from the first round who made the most saves in the World Cup, with nine. The preparation reinforced the positioning for direct shots and rebounds in the penalty area.
The duel between Spain and Saudi Arabia will have Brazilian refereeing, with Raphael Claus, who will be assisted by Danilo Manis and Rodrigo Figueiredo.
In Madrid, the Spanish fans received an unexpected absence. The fan fest in the traditional Plaza de Colon, a meeting point for fans, was canceled due to the strong heat in the capital.
