Australia vs Spain: World Cup 2014 match preview
A look ahead to defending champion’s last match at the World Cup
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Your support makes all the difference.Spain are making their very last stand at this year’s World Cup after a disastrous campaign which saw them lose to Chile and be demolished by the Netherlands. The Furia Roja now have the chance to bow out gracefully and prove to the world that there is still life within this team, while many are already thinking about the future of the squad and the bench.
Manager Vicente Del Bosque, who has announced that he would be willing to step down from the team if the decision is made, is expected to bring in some fresh legs into the starting line-up. Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas might sit on the bench and be replaced by either Liverpool’s Pepe Reina or Manchester United’s David de Gea. Koke might also start on midfield while there is also speculation regarding the inclusion of Manchester United’s Juan Mata and Arsenal’s Santi Cazorla in the starting team.
Australia are also eliminated from the World Cup after suffering two straight losses as well, but the Socceroos did manage to impress in both matches and almost left with a result against group leaders Netherlands. The Aussies will definitely be looking to leave with their heads held high but manager Ange Postecoglou will be missing the services of his top scorer Tim Cahill due to suspension.
KICK-OFF: Monday, 5pm
PAST MEETINGS…
These sides have never faced each other.
STATS…
This is the first time these two teams have squared off.
Former Everton striker Tim Cahill has scored three goals in his last three World Cup matches. He is also the only Australian player who scored in three World Cups. He is suspended for this match however.
The Socceroos have only won two of their last 12 World Cup matches and lost seven.
Spain have conceded seven goals in the World Cup so far – one less than the total they conceded at the 2010 World Cup, Euro 2008 and 2012 combined.
ODDS…
Australia to win: 7.1
Spain to win: 2.5
Draw: 4.1
TV: Live on ITV at 5pm
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