Spain World Cup push on track despite upheaval
KRASNODAR: Cesar Azpilicueta is convinced Spain have what it takes to contend for the World Cup title despite a shaky start and the dismissal of coach Julen Lopetegui on the eve of the tournament.
The 2010 world champions qualified for the last 16 as winners of Group B ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal, and face hosts Russia in Moscow today.
Spain are unbeaten in 23 matches, a run dating back to Euro 2016, but the Spanish federation’s decision to sack Lopetegui after he accepted the Real Madrid job threatened to derail their campaign.
“It’s clear that it’s an unusual circumstance that doesn’t happen he’s very involved. He had to face up to this situation and he is giving everything he has to help us, to improve the team,” he said.
“I have no doubt we’re going to achieve our goal.”
“The dynamic is very good, very similar to that of the last two years,” he added. “The group is united, with a desire to grow, and thirsty for victory. Each coach has their own way of working but there haven’t been any big changes.”
Spain find themselves in a half of the draw that includes just one other former champion, England, although a porous defence has been a cause for concern.
Ronaldo scored a hat-trick in a thrilling 3-3 draw with Portugal in their opening game, while Spain’s backline was breached twice more by Morocco.
“It’s true that we’ve scored goals but we’ve also conceded a lot of them too,” said Azpilicueta. “We’re professionals, we have clear minds and we know we can offer more.
“We’re an offensive team, with lots of attacking players, and we’ve always had this problem. When you get lots of players up front, sometimes a counter-attack can take you by surprise and lead to a chance for the opposition.
“We must work on this point and regain our solidity.”