Spain 1 Netherlands 5: Sergio Ramos admits 'it's not normal to concede five' as under-fire goalkeeper Iker Casillas calls for Spain to put humiliation behind them
Casillas had a poor game that saw the World Champions crushed in their opening match against the 2010 runners-up Netherlands
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Spain need to close ranks, quickly put their shocking 5-1 defeat by the Netherlands behind them and focus on Wednesday's crucial World Cup Group B game against Chile, according to captain Iker Casillas.
Their title defence got off to the worst possible start on Friday when they surrendered an early lead and were thrashed by the rampant Dutch in what was Spain's worst World Cup loss in more than 60 years.
Casillas was one of several players who endured a nightmare game in Salvador and the goalkeeper conceded that he and his team mates were simply "not up to the job" against the nation they beat 1-0 in the final in South Africa four years ago.
"Now this (Friday's) match is in the past and we shouldn't dwell on it but move on to the next one," Casillas told reporters.
"This team have always been characterised by the way the players help each other.
"We have to face up to the consequences, train hard and win the next game. Chile will be a tough opponent and for us it will be like a final," added the Real Madrid stopper.
Spain's mauling brought back memories of their surprise 1-0 opening game defeat by Switzerland in South Africa four years ago, although the scale of Friday's reverse was stunning.
On their way to winning Euro 2008, the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012, Spain conceded a mere six goals in 19 matches.
Friday's result against the Dutch was a wake-up call to a side used to controlling opponents with their slick passing game, and coach Vicente del Bosque may consider reshuffling his team and tweaking his tactics against the Chileans.
The Spanish defence, normally so difficult to penetrate, appeared helpless against waves of attacks in the second half and centre back Sergio Ramos said urgent improvement was needed.
"For better or worse you cannot stand still in football, you have to look forward," he told reporters.
"It's not normal that we concede so many goals," he added.
"We have to improve in the next few days and only a win against Chile will be enough for us."
Chile began their World Cup on Friday with a 3-1 win over Australia, who Spain play in their final group game on June 23.
If Del Bosque's side manage to progress to the last 16 as group runners-up, they are likely to face hosts Brazil.
Reuters
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments