Spain (National Football)

Spain ensured England made a disappointing start to their UEFA Nations League campaign by leaving Wembley Stadium with a 2-1 win in Group A4 on Saturday.

Saul Niguez and Rodrigo Moreno cancelled out Marcus Rashford's opener as the 2010 FIFA World Cup winners turned on the style when it mattered in London.

England thought they'd equalised deep into stoppage time when substitute Danny Welbeck turned in, but the goal was ruled out for an apparent foul in a melee involving Spain goalkeeper David De Gea.

Luke Shaw assisted Rashford's goal, but the Manchester United left-back had to be stretchered off after suffering a head injury following a collision with Spain defender Dani Carvajal early in the second half.

Shaw later regained consciousness in the dressing room and was able to communicate, per BBC Sport. On the pitch, England were unable to rally and prevent Luis Enrique from enjoying a winning debut as Spain coach.

   

Marcus Rashford Proves He Should Start More Often for Club and Country

Rashford took his goal brilliantly in the 11th minute, having been played in by Manchester United team-mate Shaw's wonderfully arced pass. As good as the pass was, the 20-year-old striker's movement may have been better.

He had bent his run well, attacking the gap between left-back Marcos Alonso and centre-back Nacho. Excellent timing positioned Rashford directly between Nacho and skipper Sergio Ramos as the ball from Shaw came in.

It not only let Rashford finish with the minimum of fuss, but it also maintained his impressive scoring run for his country:

Marcus Rashford has now scored in 4 of his 6 home starts for England
v Australia ✅
v Slovakia ✅
v Slovenia ❌
v Brazil ❌
v Costa Rica ✅
v Spain ✅ pic.twitter.com/qwYcxRCaDF

— Sky Sports Statto (@SkySportsStatto) September 8, 2018

Rashford's pace and varied movement gave Spain trouble all night. He worked the middle ahead of misfiring Harry Kane and proved a threat whenever he peeled off onto the flanks—particularly during the second half.

Drawing a save when one-on-one against United goalkeeper De Gea late on showed Rashford still has work to do as a finisher. However, the quality of his overall game sent a message to England boss Gareth Southgate.

It also let Red Devils chief Jose Mourinho, who has given the gifted young attacker just one start this season, know he should pick Rashford more often.

   

Saul Niguez Is Ready to Be Spain's New Talisman

Andres Iniesta and David Silva have retired from international duty, but Enrique needn't worry. He has a natural talisman in midfield in the form of Niguez, who levelled the scoring in style to cap a flowing move two minutes after Rashford had found the net.

Fittingly, it took a player of Saul's talent to achieve a rare feat against England's defence on their home soil:

Saul is only the 2nd opposition player to score in England’s last 9 home competitive internationals - also Slovakia’s Stanislav Lobotka in Sept 2017 pic.twitter.com/979rn37lhr

— Sky Sports Statto (@SkySportsStatto) September 8, 2018

The powerful low shot showcased the class of the Atletico Madrid star in front of goal. Few players connect as fiercely and cleanly with the ball when a shooting chance arrives.

Nor can many midfielders match the 23-year-old's drive and ability to time his runs from deep to offer vital support for his forward line. The trait makes Niguez a natural link between the deeper areas of midfield and the final third.

It also means he lends Spain tremendous fluidity as he rotates positions seamlessly with Isco and Thiago Alcantara, depending on when and where he makes his runs.

Having a player this good not close to his peak gives Enrique a building block around which he can construct a bright future for La Roja.

   

Shaky Defending Can Ruin England's Progress Under Gareth Southgate

England have taken strides on Southgate's watch, most notably finishing fourth at this summer's FIFA World Cup in Russia. Yet Southgate will have little chance to build on the progress if the Three Lions' defending continues to be this shaky.

The intuitive movement and subtle passing of Niguez and Co. laid bare England's back three time and again.

Despite having natural a centre-back in Liverpool's Joe Gomez slot in alongside John Stones and Harry Maguire, Southgate's men lacked shape and awareness. The frailties were most vividly exposed for both goals.

Spain's opener took advantage of reckless challenges and shoddy positioning:

Spain 1-1. Poor concentration. Spanish counter, catching out Shaw, Carvajal, Rodrigo, clinical Saul finish.

— Henry Winter (@henrywinter) September 8, 2018

Meanwhile, more slack and passive defending aided Rodrigo's winner:

Lovely goal from Spain. Rodrigo finishes Alcantara free kick. England marking non-existent

— Oliver Holt (@OllieHolt22) September 8, 2018

Mistakes like these meant England matched an unwanted mark:

2 - England have conceded more than once in the first half of a game for the first time since June 2017, when they lost 3-2 against France in Paris. Breached. #ENGSPA

— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) September 8, 2018

The numbers should be a reminder for Southgate where his work needs to be done if the Three Lions are to make progress.

   

What's Next?

Spain will continue their group campaign when they face Croatia in Elche on Tuesday, the same day England host Switzerland in a friendly at Leicester City's King Power Stadium.

Jordi Alba and Koke are among those who have been dropped by Luis Enrique after he named his first squad as Spain manager for the upcoming international break. 

Enrique named his squad on Friday:

⚠ OFICIAL | Lista de convocados por @LUISENRIQUE21 para los partidos ante Inglaterra (@England) y Croacia (@HNS_CFF) de la UEFA Nations League#UnaNuevaIlusión pic.twitter.com/JXES4A9VoD

— Selección Española Masculina de Fútbol (@SEFutbol) August 31, 2018

Alba and Koke, along with Iago Aspas, represented Spain at the FIFA World Cup earlier this summer, but the trio was dropped by Enrique, who has called up Marcos Alonso, Alvaro Morata and Jose Luis Gaya instead.

Andres Iniesta, Gerard Pique and David Silva are also absent, having retired from international football following the tournament in Russia.

Enrique managed Alba during his time as Barcelona boss, but it seems the pair did not enjoy the best relationship during his final months at the Camp Nou, per ESPN's Samuel Marsden:

Luis Enrique vs. Jordi Alba is actually a thing then!? Lucho leaves him out of his first Spain squad.

— Samuel Marsden (@samuelmarsden) August 31, 2018

Since Lucho left, lots of Alba comments could be interpreted as digs at his former coach. "Valverde is better for me than Luis Enrique." "Enjoying my football again." "Shape switch after Paris harmed me but now we're defending really well with a back four again."

— Samuel Marsden (@samuelmarsden) August 31, 2018

Squawka's Muhammad Butt criticised Alba's exclusion:

so petty Tom is gonna file copyright infringement.

— Muhammad Butt (@muhammadbutt) August 31, 2018

Marcos Alonso's call-up is not a surprise given he has produced three assists and a goal in a trio of Premier League games this season, but he and Gaya will have their work cut out to replace the Barcelona full-back's contribution on the left flank.

Dani Ceballos' inclusion could raise some eyebrows, as he only played 899 minutes last season.

Footbal writers Andrew Gaffney and David Cartlidge explained the thinking behind his selection:

As with most Spain managers/coaches, being a bit-part player at a top club is valued greater than performing to a higher standard on a regular basis at a ‘smaller’ one.

— Andrew Gaffney (@GaffneyVLC) August 31, 2018

Along with a small group of others, the future of Spanish football. It isn’t a surprise in the slightest Ceballos made the squad nor is it of importance he didn’t play much in the past year. Luis Enrique is simply recognising talent and ability of the highest level.

— David Cartlidge (@davidjaca) August 31, 2018

Enrique's side will take on England and Croatia in the UEFA Nations League in September, and they will be hoping to perform much better than they did at the World Cup.

After Julen Lopetegui was relieved of his position as coach on the eve of the tournament, La Roja lost on penalties to hosts Russia in the last 16.

Croatia made the final, while the Three Lions reached the semi-finals, so all three will be focused on making a promising start to the Nations League.

Manchester City star David Silva has announced his retirement from Spain's national team.

Goal's Sam Lee shared the news via Twitter:

David Silva has retired from international football

— Sam Lee (@SamLee) August 13, 2018

City shared the player's statement, which was posted in Spanish:

💙 https://t.co/JKsdQp9Y9M

— Manchester City (@ManCity) August 13, 2018

Silva was a part of the La Roja team that disappointed at this year's FIFA World Cup, featuring in all four of their matches. The 32-year-old previously won two European championships and the 2010 FIFA World Cup with the side.

Here are his final statistics with La Roja:

David Silva's record for Spain:

125 caps 🇪🇸
35 goals ⚽
2 European Championship 🏆
1 World Cup 🏆

El Mago, take a bow. pic.twitter.com/r6TI3ZalgL

— Squawka (@Squawka) August 13, 2018

Formerly of Valencia, Silva has been with Manchester City since 2010, steadily building up an iconic status at the club. Given his age and the great success he enjoyed on the international stage, it makes sense to bow out now and make way for the next generation.

La Roja are a team in transition, coming off their best spell in history. Manager Julen Lopetegui departed before the World Cup even began, and after the disappointing loss against Russia, retirements were expected.

Barcelona's Gerard Pique also won't feature again:

Spain's Gerard Piqué has announced his retirement from international football.

“I had a great time with the national team where I had the chance to win the Euros and a World Cup, and I'm very happy to have been part of all these successes. Now I want to focus on Barça."

👏👏 pic.twitter.com/Ls83aIe7Xe

— UEFA EURO (@UEFAEURO) August 11, 2018

The move should allow Silva to prolong his club career, where his workload is expected to decrease in the next few years. City have options in midfield, evidenced by their routine 2-0 win over Arsenal to start the season―Silva didn't feature, and Kevin De Bruyne came off the bench.

It also opens the door for more of Spain's young talents to get integrated into the team. The likes of Real Sociedad's Mikel Oyarzabal and Valencia's Carlos Soler have bags of talent, and opportunity has been the main issue holding them back so far. 

Barcelona's Gerard Pique announced his retirement from Spain duty on Saturday, and new La Roja manager Luis Enrique has confirmed there will be no reversal in the centre-back's decision. 

The former Barcelona manager, appointed Spain boss last month after the 2018 FIFA World Cup, said the 31-year-old's decision to call it a day must be accepted, per TVE (h/t Sport):

"The situation is exactly as he told it. It's an irreversible decision. We gave him time to think about it, but when we spoke he'd already made his mind up. There's no other choice but to accept his decision and recognise what he's done for the national team."

Pique departs the international stage having appeared for Spain 102 times, winning the 2010 FIFA World Cup and 2012 UEFA European Championship.

He made his debut in 2009 and was a key part of the first team as Spain established themselves as the world's best side.

La Roja have not reached the same heights recently and were knocked out of the 2018 World Cup by hosts Russia at the last-16 stage.

However, Pique bows out with a remarkable international record, and Enrique now faces the unenviable task of replacing him.

Gerard Piqué's Spain career:

🇪🇸 102 caps
⚽️ 5 goals
🏆 2010 World Cup
🏆 2012 European Championships

And that's how it will end. ✊ pic.twitter.com/awlCbZtNVd

— Squawka (@Squawka) August 11, 2018

Still a first-choice centre-back with Barcelona, Pique could likely have continued his international career until UEFA Euro 2020 at least.

But the Camp Nou giants should be satisfied with his decision to call it a day with Spain as it should prolong his club career.

The obvious candidates to replace Pique in the Spain squad are Nacho, Cesar Azpilicueta and potentially former Barca defender Marc Bartra, who has flourished since joining Real Betis in January.

Enrique's first match in charge of the national team will be against England at Wembley Stadium on September 8.

He said upon his appointment he had 70 players in mind for the squad, but that has now increased after he watched Barcelona beat Sevilla 2-1 in the Spanish Super Cup on Sunday, per TVE (h/t Sport): "The problem is mine. Now I don't have 70 footballers, I have 72. I like to have options to choose from, I'm delighted. We're going to wait and see the status of everyone. Surprises? There will be surprises, I'm sure."

Spain have confirmed the appointment of former Barcelona coach Luis Enrique as their new manager. 

As relayed by Sky Sports News, it was announced on Monday that the 48-year-old had signed a two-year contract:

BREAKING: Luis Enrique named new Spain coach. #SSN pic.twitter.com/3fgeE8Mdne

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) July 9, 2018

🚨 OFFICIAL | @LUISENRIQUE21, new @SeFutbol Head Coach#BienvenidoLuisEnrique pic.twitter.com/3KWNauF9WL

— Selección Española Masculina de Fútbol (@SEFutbol) July 9, 2018

Enrique takes over at a turbulent time for Spanish football. Former manager Julen Lopetegui was dismissed on the eve of the recent FIFA World Cup after it was confirmed he would be taking the Real Madrid job.

Fernando Hierro was the man who took over at short notice, although after Spain were eliminated in the first knockout round of the competition by Russia, he stepped away from the position.

Enrique has been out of management since stepping away from his role at Barcelona at the end of the 2016-17 season.

During his time at the Camp Nou he enjoyed success in his three-year spell, with the team winning the UEFA Champions League, La Liga and the Copa del Rey in his first season in charge. They went on to win La Liga once more and the Copa on two more occasions.

Enrique has been linked with various jobs since leaving Barcelona. It was reported by John Cross of the Daily Mirror that both Arsenal and Chelsea were considering bringing in the former midfielder this summer.

It'll be Enrique's first foray into international management, but Spanish football journalist David Cartlidge thinks he has the tools to be a success with La Roja:

Also get the feeling Lucho will prefer International management. Won't have to deal with the media directly as much, can work largely in silence. Was evidently drained by club life.

— David Cartlidge (@davidjaca) July 9, 2018

Spain look like they would benefit from fresh ideas. In their penalty shootout defeat to Russia, the team was so slow with the ball at their feet. They lacked the inventiveness and the intensity needed to break down their deep-sitting opponents.

Enrique will seek to add those traits and has shown during his time with Barcelona that he is a coach willing to play a more direct style of football when the situation demands. It was under his tutelage that the trio of Luis Suarez, Neymar and Lionel Messi came together to such great effect at the Camp Nou.

Dermot Corrigan of ESPN FC thinks Enrique may encounter some issues, though, especially given what's preceded his appointment:

Issue with Luis Enrique as new Spain boss is not that he's a bad coach, much better CV than most of other options. Just that more noise / distractions inevitable now. And that's unlikely to benefit team.

— Dermot Corrigan (@dermotmcorrigan) July 9, 2018

With Andres Iniesta now retired from international football, and players like David Silva, Sergio Busquets and Sergio Ramos set to be in the twilight of their career by the time the UEFA European Championship rolls around in 2020, it's imperative young blood comes into the team.

The talent is there, with players like Saul Niguez and Marco Asensio undoubtedly set for bright futures in the game. If Enrique can get the best from them and stimulate the players with a different blueprint, the tools are there for him to be an eventual success.

Sergio Ramos has vowed to play at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar after Spain made a shock last-16 exit from the 2018 tournament after losing to hosts Russia on penalties.

Following the shootout defeat on Sunday, Andres Iniesta, 34, announced his retirement from international football.

But 32-year-old Ramos, the Spain captain, said he will carry on representing La Roja and hopes to still be around at the next World Cup, per Amitai Winehouse of MailOnline: 

"F--k, it's difficult. It's so many hours, so much effort and so much dedication. Maybe this wasn't our best moment but we go home without having lost a game. I would like to carry on playing [for Spain] for many more years because I'm going home with a terrible pain. I'm going to have to go to Qatar with a grey beard if necessary."

Spain looked to have a relatively easy path through to the quarter-finals after they were able to top Group B with just five points.

Russia had enjoyed a fantastic start to their home tournament as they comfortably beat Saudi Arabia and Egypt, but their limitations were exposed in a 3-0 defeat to Uruguay.

However, they had a clear game plan against Spain to sit back and defend, and goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev was the hero as he saved two penalties in the shootout.

Sergio Ramos had a bad day 🚽 https://t.co/gTNPq6Zsni

— B/R Football (@brfootball) July 2, 2018

Spain were culpable for a lack of imagination. They dominated possession and had more than enough quality to break down Russia's defence, but they showed remarkably little intent and ambition.

191 - Russia 🇷🇺 have eliminated Spain from the World Cup despite completing only 191 passes in 120 minutes !

Spain 🇪🇸 have completed 1006 passes today, new record for a team since Opta started to collect this data (1966).

Punishment. #ESPRUS #WorldCup pic.twitter.com/MuYvJPaSgl

— OptaJean (@OptaJean) July 1, 2018

Ramos played a key role as the deadlock was broken in the 12th minute at Moscow's Luzhniki Stadium through a Sergei Ignashevich own goal, but Artem Dzyuba then equalised from the spot.

The Real Madrid centre-back has enjoyed huge success with his national team, winning the 2010 World Cup, as well as the UEFA European Championship in 2008 and 2012.

It is clear, though, he is not yet done representing his country.   

Andres Iniesta has announced his retirement from international football following Spain's penalty-defeat to Russia at the 2018 World Cup.

Per the Mirror's Alex Smith, the 34-year-old told Radio Estadio: "This was my last game for Spain. A marvellous spell is over. Sometimes the end is not as you dreamed it."

Iniesta was left out of the starting lineup for the clash by manager Fernando Hierro and was unable to inspire La Roja to victory following his introduction in the 67th minute, although he took and scored their first penalty in the shootout after the match ended 1-1.

Koke and Iago Aspas failed to beat Igor Akinfeev, though, as Russia secured a 4-3 win.

Former footballer Terry Gibson was surprised by Iniesta's exclusion from the lineup:

Very surprised Hierro has left Iniesta out today, i actually think he has been one of their better performers in this competition, apart from the fact he is & has been one of the best midfielders to have ever played the game.

— Terry Gibson (@TerryGibson88) July 1, 2018

Indeed, while the playmaker may be past his prime, in a mixed tournament for Spain he had been one of their stronger performers during the group stage.

Although he was unable to help Spain break the deadlock after he came on, he showed plenty of desire to, per Jonathan Liew of The Independent:

https://twitter.com/jonathanliew/status/1013473963064905728

While his international career may not have ended as hoped, few can match what Iniestaachieved with La Roja over the years.

He made 131 appearances for his country and scored 13 goals, and he played a key role in Spain winning the 2008 and 2012 European Championships either side of the 2010 World Cup:

Andrés Iniesta for #ESP:

🇪🇸 131 games
⚽️ 13 goals
🏆 EURO 2008
🏆 2010 World Cup
🏆 EURO 2012

Gracias, Andrés. pic.twitter.com/TBFAyP8bvM

— Squawka (@Squawka) July 1, 2018

Only Iker Casillas, Sergio Ramos and Xavi Hernandez have earned more caps for La Roja. 

Spain still have the likes of David Silva and Isco available to them, so they'll hardly be lacking quality in midfield following Iniesta's departure, but he's been a mainstay in the side since his debut in 2006; moving on from him will be no easy task.

Russia shocked Spain on Sunday as they won 4-3 on penalties at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow to secure a quarter-final berth at the 2018 World Cup

Koke and Iago Aspas failed to convert their spot-kicks in the shootout after the two sides played out a 1-1 draw over 120 minutes

La Roja took the lead through Sergey Ignashevich's own goal after just 11 minutes. The Russia defender was in the process of bundling Sergio Ramos over from a free-kick when the ball hit the back of his leg and deflected in.

Artem Dzyuba replied from the spot shortly before half-time after Gerard Pique was penalised for a handball, and Russia were able to hang on for the remainder of the match.

Spain were controversially denied a penalty when Ignashevich pulled down Pique in the 24th minute of extra time even after the incident was reviewed by the Video Assistant Referee, resulting in the shootout.

                                  

Spain Got What They Deserved

There's no denying the quality Spain possess in their ranks or their ability to blow teams away when they turn it on—Argentina found out as much when they lost 6-1 to La Roja in March—but their biggest hurdle in this match and throughout the tournament was not a particular opponent but themselves.

After taking the early lead and taking control of the match, La Roja should have been ruthlessly stepping on Russia's throat and putting the game out of sight, but what followed was a complete lack of urgency to increase their lead.

ESPN's Dermot Corrigan and David Cartlidge discussed their problems:

Spain not really playing that well - moving ball across pitch and back, then back to De Gea who hoofs into touch. No shots on goal yet - don't think they've even completed a pass into the penalty area.

— Dermot Corrigan (@dermotmcorrigan) July 1, 2018

And when you face a side like Russia, happy to sit and soak up pressure, there has to be a touch of the unpredictable. A typically flat #ESP performance at this WC. #ESPRUS

— David Cartlidge (@davidjaca) July 1, 2018

They remained throughout the 120 minutes, and while the introductions of Aspas and Rodrigo gave them a little more directness, they were unable to breach Russia's defence for a second time.

Football writer Karl Matchett summarised their play when the match looked to be heading to penalties:

BIG worry for Spain here is that the match goes to penalties and Koke and Busquets just pass theirs sideways#ESP #WorldCup

— Karl Matchett (@karlmatchett) July 1, 2018

Along with their problems in the final third, their defence was an issue once again.

La Roja have been uncharacteristically vulnerable at the back throughout the tournament, and Pique gifted Russia a spot-kick here with a senseless and seemingly deliberate handball, having thrown his arm in the air while defending a corner.

As Bleacher Report's Sam Tighe noted, their tendency to become the authors of their own misfortune had been a recurring theme at the tournament:

The needless #ESP errors continue into the Round of 16. They are their own worst enemy. #WorldCup

(From my Ro16 preview piece) pic.twitter.com/S2jBZSo8EC

— Sam Tighe (@stighefootball) July 1, 2018

Spain may feel hard done by having had the bulk of possession and opportunities over the course of the match, but in truth, they engineered their own downfall.

The match would never have even reached extra time, let alone penalties, had they shown more desire and penetration going forward or simply defended better on the few occasions they were tested by Russia.

                          

VAR Robs Spain in 1st Big Test of System

With a few exceptions, the introduction of VAR at the World Cup has been a fairly positive one, with officials able to make the correct decisions more often than not.

Indeed, FIFA's referee committee head Pierluigi Collina said on Friday that 99.3 per cent of the decisions made at the tournament in consultation with VAR have been correct, per the Press Association (h/t Sky Sports).

However, in the knockout phase, it's even more vital that referees get the big calls right, and on this occasion, that did not happen.

While Spain should never have had to rely on a refereeing decision to see them through against the hosts, Ignashevich visibly pulled Pique down while, at the same time, Ramos was also held by another defender.

Former footballer Pierre van Hooijdonk could not believe a spot-kick was not awarded upon review in the VAR studio:

I don’t care who goes through but I clearly saw 2 Russian players pulling Spanish jerseys in the box. #VAR decided NO penalty....
Did they change the rules last night?

— Pierre van Hooijdonk (@pierrevh17) July 1, 2018

Ramos felt referee Bjorn Kuipers should have checked the footage himself:

Ramos on VAR “I’ve not seen it again, but he was pulling me and stopped me getting to the ball. We cannot change anything now. VAR is there to help, and the referee did not whistle it.”

— Dermot Corrigan (@dermotmcorrigan) July 1, 2018

Former Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea midfielder Micky Hazard is not a fan of the system:

At the end of this World Cup, Var will play a big part in who wins it, of that I’m certain, i don’t like it one bit except for fact based decisions, never mind football is the big loser I’m afraid X

— Micky Hazard 525 (@1MickyHazard) July 1, 2018

The system itself has demonstrably helped officials come to more correct decisions, but the failure to award a penalty here offers a reminder of VAR's failing: human error.

When all is said and done it still comes down to an official—whether it be those in the studio or the one on the pitch—to make the decision, and even with the benefit of replays, they can make questionable calls.

                           

Isco Is the Crown Jewel of Spain's Next-Gen

Fernando Hierro's decision to drop Andres Iniesta from the starting XI—even if his replacement, Marco Asensio, is an outstanding and impactful young talent—was a puzzling decision.

Sky Sports' Spanish football pundit Terry Gibson was one of many who did not expect such a change:

Very surprised Hierro has left Iniesta out today, i actually think he has been one of their better performers in this competition, apart from the fact he is & has been one of the best midfielders to have ever played the game.

— Terry Gibson (@TerryGibson88) July 1, 2018

The playmaker's legendary status is well-earned and few could hope to replace him, but Isco showed he can be the man to do so for Spain, even if he ended up on the losing side this time around.

The 26-year-old barely put a foot wrong as he pulled the strings for La Roja, pressing well and always offering an option in the final third.

COPA90 US' Aaron West and ESPN's Michael Cox were among those who enjoyed his performance:

Spain is finally fully Isco's team and it's beautiful to watch.

— Aaron West (@oeste) July 1, 2018

Isco is so good that he's in danger of making the number 22, amongst the worst numbers in football, cool

— Michael Cox (@Zonal_Marking) July 1, 2018

He showed more drive and intent than his team-mates, as Squawka Football demonstrated:

Isco completed 5/5 of his attempted take-ons in the first half vs. #RUS.

The rest of the #ESP team completed four, #RUS completed just two. 💃 pic.twitter.com/KCdEQyxnro

— Squawka (@Squawka) July 1, 2018

With Iniesta now 34 and David Silva—who was the least impressive of the three in Russia—32, we may not see either of them at another international tournament for Spain, the former in particular.

Isco will be key to their transition to a new generation of stars, and while it's clear they have issues to work on in the years to come, having his composure, technique and creativity in their side will help to facilitate that change.

                                           

What's Next

Russia will play either Croatia or Denmark in the quarter-final on Saturday, July 7, at 7 p.m. BST (2 p.m. ET).

The 2018 FIFA World Cup continues on Sunday, with Spain, Russia, Croatia and Denmark all bidding for places in the quarter-finals of the competition in Russia.

The two winners of Sunday's games will meet in the last eight on Saturday at the Fisht Stadium in Sochi.

France and Uruguay were the first two teams into the quarter-finals after their respective victories over Argentina and Portugal on Saturday.

Here's a look at the bracket, predictions and odds ahead of Sunday's games.

So, after today's results...

Friday 6th July, 17:00
Uruguay vs France 🇺🇾🇫🇷
Nizhny Novgorod #URUFRA pic.twitter.com/8RDTOIEmcE

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 30, 2018

                

Sunday's World Cup Match Odds

Spain (53-100), Draw (327-100), Russia (327-50)

Croatia (4-5), Draw (233-100), Denmark (239-50)

All odds according to OddsShark.

            

Last 16 Predictions

Sunday, July 1

Spain 2-1 Russia

Croatia 2-0 Denmark

        

Monday, July 2

Brazil 3-1 Mexico

Belgium 2-0 Japan

        

Tuesday, July 3

Sweden 1-0 Switzerland

Colombia 1-2 England

           

Spain vs. Russia

Hosts Russia will be hoping to continue their World Cup adventure but face a tough test on Sunday against Spain, who topped Group B.

ITV Football showed how dominant Spain have been in possession:

🇪🇸 Spain's passing and possession stats are 🔥🔥🔥
Over 300 more than any other team 👌#ESP #WorldCup pic.twitter.com/f84HIpx5Fc

— ITV Football (@itvfootball) June 30, 2018

Fernando Hierro's side have plenty of attacking talent and will look to the creativity of Isco, Andres Iniesta and David Silva to break down Russia's defence.

They also have an in-form strike force; Diego Costa has scored three goals in three games, while Iago Aspas came off the bench to score a late equaliser against Morocco. The Celta Vigo striker has an excellent record at international level, as Marca highlighted:

382 minutes ⏱

It hasn't taken Iago Aspas long to net 6 goals for #ESP

He's reached the tally faster than anyone else in history 🔥 https://t.co/GhdeJF1w0C pic.twitter.com/aCFjVGCNl6

— MARCA in English 🇺🇸 (@MARCAinENGLISH) June 27, 2018

However, Spain have looked vulnerable in defence and have conceded five goals in their first three matches. Goalkeeper David De Gea has come in for criticism after making a mistake against Portugal.

Hierro told Radio Nacional de Espana that De Gea will play against Russia and that he has not considered changing his goalkeeper despite his form (h/t Football Espana).

Central defenders Gerard Pique and Sergio Ramos have also looked indecisive, and there is an air of vulnerability about their back line.

Football journalist David Cartlidge offered his view:

Spain, as vibrant as they are in attack with all their creative points, look more vulnerable than ever in defence. Older legs, more open system...#ESP

— David Cartlidge (@davidjaca) June 25, 2018

Spain have the stronger squad of the two teams, but Russia have exceeded expectations with their performances, and playmaker Aleksandr Golovin has shone for the hosts.

Liam Twomey of ESPN FC has been impressed with the 22-year-old:

Obviously judging a player based on World Cup performances (particularly against a team like Saudi Arabia) is dangerous, but Golovin has shown enough for CSKA as well as Russia in recent months to suggest he's ready for a step up

— Liam Twomey (@liam_twomey) June 29, 2018

Russia will hope to exploit Spain's defensive frailties, but anything other than a victory for La Roja will be seen as a big shock.

           

Croatia vs. Demark

Croatia head into the last 16 after an impressive group-stage campaign that saw them beat Nigeria, Argentina and Iceland to top Group D.

The qualities of Real Madrid's Luka Modric and Barcelona's Ivan Rakitic in midfield have allowed Croatia to take control of games, and they also have dangerous attackers in Ante Rebic, Mario Mandzukic and Ivan Perisic.

Rakitic has said Modric is Croatia's greatest-ever player, as Goal shared:

Ivan Rakitic says his club rival and international team-mate Luka Modric is the greatest Croatian player ever! 🇭🇷 pic.twitter.com/dRVVvuyo87

— GOAL (@goal) June 29, 2018

Croatia should also have a fresh squad after manager Zlatko Dalic rested several of his first-team stars against Iceland.

Denmark's hopes lie with talisman Christian Eriksen, who showed his quality at the World Cup with a stunning goal against Australia.

Rakitic has warned his team to keen a close eye on the Tottenham Hotspur man, per Indy Football:

Ivan Rakitić: “It is not easy to hold back Denmark’s offense, Eriksen in particular, who I think is one of the best playmakers in Europe and the world. We should pay special attention to him.”#WorldCup #CRO #DEN pic.twitter.com/Qoo0IHrbV5

— Indy Football (@IndyFootball) June 29, 2018

Croatia were one of the most impressive sides in the group stage and have quality throughout their team. Denmark are defensively sound but, other than Eriksen, have looked short in attack and will need to be far more adventurous if they are to progress.

Spain and Morocco played out a 2-2 draw as Group B reached its conclusion at the 2018 FIFA World Cup on Monday.  

The result means Spain finish finish top of the group and progress to the knockout stages while Morocco finish bottom with just one point.

   

Spain Need To Sharpen Up Shaky Defence

Spain put in a shaky defensive performance against Morocco and could have been reduced to 10 men when Gerard Pique escaped a red card for a two-footed lunge on Khalid Boutaib.

Football writer Daniel Storey offered his view:

That's a disgrace. For Pique to not even get booked for a two-footed challenge with both feet off the floor at the point of contact is bizarre.

— Daniel Storey (@danielstorey85) June 25, 2018

The Barcelona defender also escaped a deliberate handball on the edge of his own penalty area at the start of the second half.

Dermot Corrigan at ESPN FC summed up his display:

Pique handball there too - he's having bit of a shocker.

— Dermot Corrigan (@dermotmcorrigan) June 25, 2018

Pique was not the only player to put in a poor defensive showing. A mix-up between Sergio Ramos and Andres Iniesta on the halfway line allowed Boutaib to charge through and open the scoring.

Boutaib might have had a second after catching Ramos and Pique napping, but he could not beat David De Gea in Spain's goal.

Squawka's Muhammad Butt explained where it was all going wrong at the back:

Carvajal is so out of position that Piqué is moving out of position to cover and it's wrecking the whole line. idk why Azpilicueta or Nacho aren't starting. https://t.co/imE8G7cG4Z

— Muhammad Butt (@muhammadbutt) June 25, 2018

Spain also had the crossbar to thank for denying Nordin Amrabat after his shot beat De Gea but cannoned back off the woodwork.

Morocco did score again when Youssef En-Nesyri towered over Ramos and headed past De Gea. It was not enough for victory but Spain must sharpen up at the back if they are to have any chance of winning the World Cup.

     

Isco & Iniesta Key to Spain's World Cup Hopes

Spain were poor in defence, but in attack they still played as fluently as ever, and Iniesta and Isco highlighted just how crucial they are to their World Cup hopes.

The duo combined superbly to make it 1-1 as the former Barcelona man swept into the box and picked out Isco who lashed the ball high into the roof of the net.

Opta showed how influential he is for the national team:

9 - Isco Alarcon has scored more goals for Spain than any other player since the start of 2017 (nine goals). Stellar.#ESP #MAR #ESPMAR #WorldCup pic.twitter.com/a6F4k3CaP7

— OptaJose (@OptaJose) June 25, 2018

The Real Madrid man was unfortunate not to add a second after the break as his header was cleared off the line by Romain Saiss.

Iniesta was also influential—his passing, movement and vision were too much for Morocco at times. He set up Diego Costa for a chance but the striker could not quite get his toe on the ball.

Football writer Simon Harrison singled the pair out for praise:

Mixed bag of a first half for #ESP. Isco impressive again, Iniesta very good since his mistake. Spain vulnerable on the break, as expected. Diego Costa has grabbed his place and won’t be letting it go. #WorldCup

— Simon Harrison (@simonhfootball) June 25, 2018

Spain's brand of football makes them easy on the eye and Isco and Iniesta provide the creativity to cut open defences. La Roja are still yet to convince they can go all the way but certainly have the attacking talent to cause even the very best teams problems.

   

Spain Deserved Lucky Break After Group Stage Woes

Spain rode their luck at times on Monday as they scraped the draw which was enough to see them finish as group winners.

Pique escaped a red card, Amrabat was denied by the crossbar and then in the dying moments VAR came to Spain's assistance to award La Roja Iago Aspas's goal.

The goal had initally been ruled out for offside but it was given after VAR had been consulted. Sports writer Andy West said it was the right decision:

People will inevitably moan about VAR but it was the correct decision. Aspas was onside. It was a goal. Simple as that.

— Andy West (@andywest01) June 25, 2018

It could be seen as fortuitous but Spain have deserved the little bit of luck that came their way. They should have won their opening game against Portugal but a soft penalty, a rare De Gea error and a late Ronaldo free-kick denied them all three points.

They utterly dominated Iran in their second game but had to settle for a narrow 1-0 win after being frustrated for long periods against Carlos Queiroz's side.

Winning Group B means Spain go on to face tournament hosts Russia who looked good in their opening two matches but were comfortably beaten 3-0 by Uruguay on Monday.

  

What's Next

Spain will face Russia in the last 16 of the World Cup on Sunday at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow. Morocco will return to action in September when they resume qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations with a clash against Malawi.