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Two time defending champions Spain begin their Euro 2016 campaign against the Czech Republic in Toulouse. Join The Roar for live scores and commentary from 11pm AEST.
Despite a poor showing at the World Cup two years ago, Spain remain arguably the most successful national team over the past decade, winning three major international titles during a magnificent four year period between 2008 and 2012.
Two Euro championships and a World Cup triumph in between was just reward for a Spain team that stood head and shoulders above all others in the international arena.
For all their domination however, Spain’s aura as a superpower has slipped substantially following a poor World Cup campaign in Brazil. Throw in a surprising defeat to minnows Georgia recently and there is enough evidence to suggest that they will not be defending their Euro title this time around.
With that said, Spain still possess a wonderful squad with steel in defence and playmaking quality from the midfield and up.
Manchester United’s David de Gea and Real Madrid’s Sergio Ramos headline a Spanish defence that will prove very difficult to break down if both these players are at their best.
In midfield, the class of Andres Iniesta, Cesc Fabregas, Koke and Thiago will keep the Czech Republic guessing as they aim to shut down some of the most elegant footballers in the world.
If the Spanish do have one weakness however, it is an inability to hit teams on the break quickly. Spain like to control possession but sometimes their play bares very little fruit against well organised defensive teams. Georgia defended stoutly last week and were able to produce a shock result. Switzerland did the same thing when they defeated Spain at the 2010 World Cup.
The Czechs will no doubt play on the counter tonight and hope that veteran Petr Cech and seasoned star Tomas Rosicky will be able to guide them to an historic upset.
Spain though will be eager to secure the win given that sterner tests against Croatia and Turkey await in a pretty difficult group.
While the Czech Republic could withstand an onslaught for a half or so, Spain possess the class required to secure a good win.
Spain to win 2-0