After a disappointing 1-1 draw with France last fall, Spain will look to rally and reassert their position atop group I when they take on Finland on Friday.
In their last match, the Spaniards got off to an early 1-0 thanks to a Sergio Ramos header. However, instead of relaxing and reverting to their passing game, the team attempted to force the play and score the second goal. The result was that the Spain side left itself susceptible to the counterattack and eventually paid in the waning seconds.
Now Spain turns its attention to Finland, the worst team in the group. Spain knows that this match will help them reassert their style of play leading up to the tilt with France on Tuesday.
"We have learnt more about [Finland] in the last few days. I'm sure they'll put pressure on us from above, which is something other teams don't always do. They have three strikers and it'll be like any other game, with them desperate to beat Spain," said forward David Villa.
Spain will be without Xavi Hernandez, who is out with a hamstring injury. Carles Puyol and Iker Casillas failed to make the cut due to major injuries. In Casillas' stead, Pepe Reina, Victor Valdes, and newcomer David De Gea will battle for the starting spot in goal.
Full Spain Roster
Goalkeepers: Victor Valdes, Pepe Reina, David de Gea.
Defenders: Alvaro Arbeloa, Raul Albiol, Sergio Ramos, Cesar Azpilicueta, Gerard Pique, Nacho Monreal (Arsenal), Jordi Alba.
Midfielders: Xabi Alonso, Xavi Hernandez, Andres Iniesta, Cesc Fabregas, Sergio Busquets, Santi Cazorla, Javi Garcia, Isco.
Forwards: David Villa, David Silva, Pedro Rodriguez, Juan Mata, Alvaro Negredo, Jesus Navas.
Start Time: 3:45 PM EST
TV: ESPN Deportes, ESPN2
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