For Xavi, Andres Iniesta and the rest of the Spain squad, Euro 2012 represents a chance to have the last laugh for the third straight major international tournament. Once again installed as favourites, the Spaniards have the luxury of bringing together the best of Barcelona and Real Madrid as well as the likes of David Silva, who has prospered in the Premier League this season.
Spain have quality all over the pitch as well as great depth on the bench – and they all slot into the favoured 4-2-3-1 formation.
In The Dugout – Vicente del Bosque
Vicente del Bosque guided Spain to 2010 World Cup glory and further boosted his popularity with a flawless 100% Euro 2012 qualifying campaign. He knows his players, he has developed a calming atmosphere around the national team despite the hostile games between Barcelona and Real Madrid, and has had no problems motivating a group of players who are no strangers to lifting trophies.
With so many proven performers to choose from, even without the injured David Villa and Carlos Puyol, Del Bosque’s biggest challenge will be juggling his array of stars. But having enjoyed great success as Real Madrid boss earlier in his managerial career, he is up to the challenge.
Key Player – Xavi
Everything Spain do flows through Xavi, who remains the heartbeat of the team – and the man opponents spend most energy trying to stop. The Barcelona man’s pinpoint passing and unrivalled poise pave the way for so many chances in the final third. UEFA Player of the Tournament in 2008, he simply does not waste possession.
His understanding with Barcelona team-mates Andres Iniesta and Sergio Busquets is a joy to watch, and he may find himself in a more advanced position if Xabi Alonso and Busquets are both picked in deeper roles. Put simply, to stop Spain, opponents must stop Xavi first and foremost.
View from Spain
Expectations are understandably sky high given Spain’s recent dominance. The fact that the Barcelona-Real Madrid Champions League final failed to materialise has only made Spanish supporters hungrier for Euro 2012 bragging rights. Look for plenty of Spain fans to make the trip to Poland and the Ukraine in the hope of seeing more triumphant scenes for La Furia Roja.
Verdict
Spain are the clear favourites to top Group C but, with opponents gradually finding answers to combat their tiki-taka style, it seems too much to expect a third straight triumph. Having said that, it would be a huge shock if the Spaniards fail to reach the last four. No team keeps the ball with such ease, however their defence may be their downfall with Sergio Ramos likely to move to centre back and Alvaro Arbeloa coming in at right back. Look for La Roja to fall short in the final.
