Chile v Spain Match Preview Chile v Spain Match Preview
Switzerlands victory over Spain on the first day of World Cup Group H was a disaster for both of these teams. Had Spain beaten the Swi s, both sides would have six points by now and a draw would have put both through. Roberto Perez Jersey Instead, Chile must take something from the European Champions to be certain of qualification while Spain must win to keep their destiny in their own hands.Chile have one foot in the last 16 but a failure to convert their dominance into goals over the previous two games means that goal difference could come into play should they lose tomorrow. If Switzerland fire against group minnows Honduras, Chile would still need a point to go through. The Swi s, who have lacked any real attacking potency so far need three points Manny Ramirez Jersey and a three goal swing to overhaul the South AmericansSpain however are far more vulnerable. They are tied with the Swi s on three points and must better their result to claim a place in the knockout stages. Before the tournament most pundits confidently predicted that Spain would walk this group but defeat in their opening group game left them playing catch up. Vicente del Bosque knows his side must win to maintain their challenge for the trophy.Both sides look to keep the ball on the ground and attack at every opportunity. Neither is comfortable sitting back and defending a small advantage. This could be the game of the tournament so far as two adventurous, entertaining sides Carlos Baerga Jersey go toe to toe. In truth, it would be a shame for either side to leave the tournament at this stage.ChileCarlos Carmona and Matias Fernandez will both mi s this game through suspension. Jorge Valdivia is likely to start as the central playmaker in place of Fernandez while Rodrigo Millar could come in for Carmona. Humberto Suazo is likely to start as he continues his comeback from injury. Marcelo Bielsa will be desperate for the powerful striker to find form and give Chile a more ruthle s edge in attack.SpainAndres Iniesta should start having recovered from injury while the more physical Alvaro Arbeloa may replace Mike Napoli Jersey Joan Capdevilla at left back in a bid to counter the threat of Alexis Sanchez. Del Bosque must decide whether or not to bow to pre sure from the Spanish media and drop one of his holding midfielders. Many Spaniards would prefer to see an attackingplayer in place of one of Xabi Alonso or Sergio Busquets. Fernando Torres and David Villa will probably start in attack.Key PlayersAlexis Sanchez (Chile) Sanchez has been outstanding so far and looks a real goal threat in addition to creating chances for others. Having mi sed a few decent B.J. Upton Jersey chances in the first two games, the skilful winger will be looking to grab the goal his overall play deserves tomorrow.David Villa (Spain) This man is a goal machine. Should Spain progre s few would look past Barcelonas latest signing for the Golden Boot. If del Bosque manages to create a balanced midfield that creates chances for Villa, the striker will score.