Spain (National Football)

Spain will host Costa Rica in Malaga on Saturday in an international friendly in preparation for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Both teams have already qualified and are expected to experiment with their formations and players. As shared by sports writer Jonas Giaever, La Roja have called up several fringe players, while the likes of Cesar Azpilicueta and Aritz Aduriz stay home:

Iago Aspas and Luis Alberto both "LFC flops", are in the Spain squad v Russia and Costa Rica. Guess we should judge on more than bad corners pic.twitter.com/Pi8u1KMGFo

— Jonas Adnan Giæver (@CheGiaevara) November 3, 2017

Here's everything you need to know about the upcoming match.

        

Date: Saturday, November 11

Time: 8:30 p.m. GMT/3:30 p.m. ET

Venue: La Rosaleda, Malaga

TV Info: ESPN 3 (U.S.)

Live Stream: WatchESPN

     

Preview

Costa Rica qualified directly from CONCACAF thanks to a great run early in the Hexagonal, but the team has not been in great form of late, failing to win their last three qualifiers. Their final outing was the defeat in Panama that sent the United States crashing out of the qualification tournament.

La Sele have travelled to Europe without Joel Campbell and Keylor Navas, and the top players in the squad are Bryan Ruiz of Sporting CP and Celso Borges of Deportivo La Coruna. On paper, Costa Rica should be no match for Spain.

La Roja have tremendous depth, and their fringe players are likely to see plenty of minutes during the two friendlies—the second is against Russia on Tuesday. Manager Julen Lopetegui knows what he has in the likes of Sergio Ramos and Gerard Pique―he's expected instead to gauge what Alberto Moreno, Alvaro Odriozola and others can bring to the team.

The former has been one of the revelations in the Premier League this season, bouncing back after a dreadful start to his Liverpool career. Reds legend John Arne Riise rightly congratulated the full-back with his call-up:

Congrats to @lfc18alberto for making the Spain squad! What a brilliant way to turn things around mate! People should look at you and learn👏🏻

— John Arne Riise (@JARiiseOfficial) November 3, 2017

Luis Alberto has been fantastic for Lazio this season, and he too has been rewarded with a call-up. His versatility would be an excellent weapon to add to Spain's squad, especially in a long tournament where injuries and suspensions occur.

Valencia's Rodrigo could well make the World Cup squad over Aduriz if his great form endures―and if he shows his worth against Costa Rica and Russia―while Suso's solid play for Milan should make him a lock for the tournament.

Lopetegui will likely use his starters more against Costa Rica than Russia given the fact the match is at home, and in all likelihood, Spain will cruise to an easy win.

Prediction: Spain 4-1 Costa Rica

The Israeli Football Association (IFA) has denied reports midfielder Isco was approached by a home fan brandishing a knife following Spain's 1-0 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying win over Israel on Monday evening.

Spanish daily Marca cited local news outlet Ynet, which reported six Israel fans were arrested at the Teddy Stadium in the nation's capital on Monday after storming the field after the final whistle and that one approached the Real Madrid playmaker with a blade.

However, the IFA's communications director, Shlomi Barzel, denied a knife was involved, per Marca:

"According to all the information we have, there is no evidence or indication that a knife was carried by anyone who ran onto the field. 

"We do not know yet where these reports have come from, they are false.

"I do not think Spain have been welcomed to a stadium outside of their country with as much affection as they were here.

"Especially Isco, who was the subject of many positive chants and banners, as were all of the players out on the pitch."

Marca initially reported the fan dropped a knife before being stopped by police as he made his way toward Isco. 

Speaking to Spanish news agency EFE (h/t Sport), police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld assured no players were at risk: "There was no security incident. The usual security measures were carried out last night, during and after the game."

Isco came on after 66 minutes and impressed in his second-half cameo, so much so that Spanish newspaper AS described the Real Madrid playmaker as "the chief" on Tuesday's front page:

"Isco is the boss" leads today's cover as Spain win in Israel and give hope for World Cup pot one in Russiahttps://t.co/BggybSXRsd pic.twitter.com/uWIp2JVzZF

— AS USA (@English_AS) October 10, 2017

Asier Illarramendi's 76th-minute thunderbolt proved to be the difference between the two teams, and while Spain confirmed their 2018 World Cup status last week, Israel have known for some time they would not advance.

Spain have cruised through their 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, only being briefly troubled by Italy but still finishing top in some style to ensure they will be ready to challenge the game's elite in Russia next year.

Manager Julen Lopetegui used the recent international break to test out one or two new faces in his squad, and those players will hope to have impressed enough to earn a place in the final 23—though they'll have to maintain club form for that, too.

The Spain boss has kept faith with a 4-3-3 system more often than not, although the forward line has varied between containing a true No. 9 and asking a rotating cast to play as a deeper link man.

#WorldCup teams:
🇷🇺Russia
🇧🇷Brazil
🇮🇷Iran
🇯🇵Japan
🇲🇽Mexico
🇧🇪Belgium
🇰🇷Korea R
🇸🇦S. Arabia
🇩🇪Germany
🦁England
🇪🇸Spain
🇳🇬Nigeria
🇨🇷Costa Rica

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) October 8, 2017

With the qualifiers now over and done with, here's our projection for how the squad will shape up based on form so far this season and the players' impact on the international stage.

           

Goalkeepers

David De Gea

There's not much debate to be had here. De Gea is the No. 1, an undisputed and guaranteed starter.

Spain are competing in their 11th consecutive World Cup! 🇪🇸 pic.twitter.com/q17AocowGM

— B/R Football (@brfootball) October 6, 2017

And with good reason—his form is impressive, his ceiling is as high as anyone's in world football right now, and he is consistently an elite performer for Manchester United and Spain.

Top reflexes, a dominant aerial presence and good distribution make him Lopetegui's firm first-choice goalkeeper now and for years to come.

                            

Pepe Reina

The veteran Napoli stopper might not play at the finals, but he'll still have a vital role.

Reina has long been a dressing-room leader, a man to lift spirits and encourage a togetherness among the squad, previously as understudy to Iker Casillas and now De Gea.

Will he play? Is he still capable at the elite level at age 35?

Well, his Napoli side are top of Serie A and have conceded only five times this season, and he's the regular starter—so ability won't be an issue.

Reina might play if it's a pivotal game that De Gea is unavailable for, but if it's a group-stage dead rubber, he'll likely step aside for the No. 3 to gain experience.

               

Kepa Arrizabalaga

Speaking of which, the No. 3 'keeper is probably going to be Athletic Club Bilbao's Kepa Arrizabalaga.

The 23-year-old hasn't been capped yet, but he's a regular in the squad and is winning the fight to be the No. 3. His form is excellent in La Liga, and there's no reason to think that will drop considerably this season.

A well-rounded stopper, he is highly thought of by his club and has a good chance of becoming De Gea's understudy after the World Cup.

Just missed the cut: Sergio Rico, Sergio Asenjo

                   

Full-backs

Jordi Alba

The first two picks at full-back are straight-forward if both are fit and healthy. Right now, only Jordi Alba is, so he's included first here.

Barcelona's left-back is fast, direct, hardworking, aggressive and always looking to get forward on the overlap—basically every key trait Spain need from their wide options.

He's a guaranteed starter when fit, and few can replicate what he brings to the team, especially when factoring his experience at the highest club level and on the international stage, where he now has over 50 caps.

                 

Dani Carvajal

The Real Madrid right-back is more considered, less explosive and perhaps slightly technically superior to Alba, but he fills the same role—get forward to support, deliver quality in the final third and be aggressive in defensive work.

If he's fit, he'll start, but right now he's out for at least a couple of months with a virus, so it's difficult to predict how much of a setback it will be to his season.

Carvajal might face an extended period of recovery, but he couldn't ask to be in a greater spotlight when he comes back: Real are as high as the domestic ladder goes, and playing well at the Santiago Bernabeu all but guarantees a place in the national team.

                 

Cesar Azpilicueta

Chelsea's versatile defender will make the cut as a full-back, since he's capable of playing on both sides as well as centrally.

He's probably not going to make a real push for a first-team place, as he's more a full-back option than centre-back for the national team. But he plays in the middle at club level, making a direct translation of form difficult.

Even so, he is composed, reliable and a squad regular—he's sure to be on the plane to Russia.

                          

Alvaro Odriozola

The final pick here is a more difficult one, but we'll switch attention to the man who started at right-back in Carvajal's absence against Albania on Friday.

Odriozola is a key performer for Real Sociedad right now and has attracted plenty of interest thanks to his top-notch performances down the side of the back line.

He was linked with Real Madrid in the summer, per Marca, and if he keeps up his good form, the 21-year-old has every chance of being the final full-back pick 

Just missed the cut: Nacho Monreal, Hector Bellerin, Juanfran

                 

Centre-backs

Sergio Ramos

There is no question that Sergio Ramos will be going to the World Cup finals—as captain and starter.

He will either have already clocked up 150 caps by the time the tournament starts, or he'll reach the milestone during the group stage, which is a formidable achievement.

Ramos has consistency issues at times, but he's effective in both penalty boxes and is a real leader who refuses to accept defeat.

               

Gerard Pique

There's more concern over whether Ramos' long-term international partner will go to Russia, with Pique recently stating he would skip the finals if his support for Catalonia's bid for independence was seen as a problem, per BBC Sport.

Assuming that's not the case, Pique will also start centre-back: an aerially proficient player who has good pace and agility and a fantastic ability to bring the ball out from the back.

Like Ramos, he doesn't lie down and accept a bad result. Spain want these two on the same wavelength at the finals.

               

Nacho

He might be Real Madrid's third-choice centre-back still, but the truth is Nacho Fernandez is playing a more key role now than ever at club level and rarely has a bad game, either at left-back or in the middle.

He's probably the fastest centre-back on offer to Spain, too, and his aggression and reliability make him a perfect stand-in if either of the first-choice defenders is missing.

               

Marc Bartra

Bartra will go to Russia if he's fit, with Spain's four central defenders pretty much set in stone. The only question mark over the Borussia Dortmund man remains his consistent availability.

He has improved immeasurably over the last three or four seasons, becoming a good marker, comfortable on the ball and similar to Pique in certain aspects.

If he's fit, he's more than good enough to go.

Just missed the cut: Inigo Martinez, Javi Martinez, Jorge Mere

                            

Central midfield

Sergio Busquets

One of Lopetegui's first names on the teamsheet, Busquets anchors the midfield, protects the defence and is the platform for the attackers to run riot.

His passing between the lines is pivotal to Spain's play, and with great movement ahead of him, Busquets should shine to his maximum.

He is still the world's best defensive midfielder.

                     

Andres Iniesta

Iniesta's name might not be a guarantee for the first XI anymore, but it's unthinkable that he won't make the squad. He probably will be in the team, too—at least to start.

The Barca man still has the capacity to unlock any defence, is looking sharper and more agile when one-on-one this season and offers positional flexibility.

He could play as a No. 8 as usual but also from the left in the forward line.

             

Koke

A pair of Atletico Madrid midfielders are next in line, starting with Koke.

The industrious and versatile performer can play right along the middle line of Spain's systems; he is just as adept at winning possession and creating chances from the channels as he is in the centre.

Set-piece prowess is also in his skill set, and Koke can emerge to be one of Spain's most important players at the finals if he hits form towards the end of the season.

                         

Saul Niguez

Koke's team-mate, Saul, is likely to play a minimal role, but it could be an important one: He's the most natural alternative to Busquets and can play pretty much anywhere when required, from centre-back to supporting striker.

Great feet, powerful running, an aerial presence and a consistent performer: He's an option off the bench for Lopetegui to protect a scoreline or to chase one.

               

Isco

There are a handful of players set to make the squad who are borderline starters depending on others' form and Lopetegui's system of choice; Isco is one of those.

His own run of form over the last six months or so has been immaculate, at domestic and international level, and his productivity in key games—notably for Spain against Italy—is a big factor in his favour.

Real Madrid's current golden boy has to keep this level up for the remainder of the season to be a guaranteed starter in the same way Busquets or Ramos is.

                       

Thiago Alcantara

The final one of our six central midfield names is Thiago, and he's the least certain pick. That's not because of talent or form issues, though, it's down to his fitness.

If he manages to put a string of games together for Bayern Munich in the final third of 2017/18, there's no question he'll be involved.

So far he's started five times this season, so it's looking good. Maintaining fitness has always been the former Barcelona starlet's worry, though.              

Just missed the cut: Asier Illarramendi, Sergi Roberto, Cesc Fabregas, Ander Herrera

               

Wide/attacking midfield

David Silva

Another staple of the Spain squad, Silva has over a century of caps and is now one of the more experienced players in this team, a leader of the front line and a guaranteed source of chances on goal.

He has played both from the sides of the attack and as a false nine in this qualifying phase, but wherever he plays, determination and invention are included.

Silva's movement remains top class, and the closer he is to his best form the better Spain's chances of winning the World Cup.

                  

Marco Asensio

He might be Real Madrid's current icon for the future, but Asensio is already making waves in the present, too.

His ability to score goals from any position in the final third is a massive factor for Lopetegui to consider, with Spain at times guilty of not making the most of openings and looking for the extra pass.

Asensio hasn't replicated that goalscoring ability on the international stage just yet, but once he finds a role in this team—which admittedly might not come until after the World Cup—he'll surely become a go-to source for goals.

                             

Pedro

One of the few true wide options for Spain, Pedro's longevity and reliability will see him involved in Russia.

His running in the channels and being an out-ball near the touchline have long since seen him used as an impact sub even in games where his movement and scoring ability aren't seen as necessary for the starting XI.

               

Suso

Competition for the final attacking-midfield spot is fierce and may well come down to form in the last months of the campaign.

Suso hasn't yet made his international debut, but Gerard Deulofeu has quickly fallen out of favour at Barcelona. Vitolo will only have a few months to impress at Atletico Madrid, and other potential inclusions haven't hit top gear yet.

The 23-year-old can play deeper, behind the forward or from wide, and that versatility—as well as playing regularly for an improving AC Milan side—could be the defining factor.   

Just missed the cut: Lucas Vazquez, Gerard Deulofeu, Jonathan Viera, Juan Mata, Vitolo, Nolito

                          

Strikers

Alvaro Morata

There isn't a better Spanish striker than Morata. It's that simple.

He's a remarkably complete forward: a goalscorer who can hold up play and run the channels, while also being aerially strong and adept in one-on-one situations.

Morata will tally plenty of goals this season for Chelsea and is likely to be the first pick if a striker is involved.

              

Iago Aspas

The back-up forward for Spain? It's a tough one, but Aspas represents a second-striker option rather than only being a direct alternative to Morata.

Aspas can play as the No. 9 by himself or just behind in a supporting role when required. His form for Celta Vigo remains good; he's a goalscorer and an inventive forward, and he has three goals in five international games.

It could turn out to be a fight between him and Aritz Aduriz.

Just missed the cut: Diego Costa, Paco Alcacer, Rodrigo, Aritz Aduriz, David Villa

                 

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Spain finished off their FIFA 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign with a 1-0 win over Israel at the Teddy Stadium in Jerusalem on Monday.

Asier Illarramendi was the match-winner for the visitors, firing home on the half-volley, to secure the victory and ensure Spain finish their campaign unbeaten after 10 games.

With top spot in Group G already assured, Spain coach Julen Lopetegui opted to make several changes to his side, handing Las Palmas midfielder Jonathan Viera a first cap.

Marca provided the lineups for both teams:

The teams are in as @SeFutbol prepare to take on Israel!

Will Spain end with a win?#WCQ pic.twitter.com/Hg1wzlqBFt

— MARCA in English 🇺🇸 (@MARCAinENGLISH) October 9, 2017

It was also a memorable night for Sergio Busquets, who won his 100th cap for Spain, as shown by Opta:

100 - Sergio Busquets will be the 12th Spanish player to reach 100 caps 🇪🇸. Brain. pic.twitter.com/31tLtHxSP3

— OptaJose (@OptaJose) October 9, 2017

Perhaps as a result of so many changes, it was a less than exciting first half with chances at a premium.

Sergio Ramos managed the first shot on target, just after the half-hour mark, but it was comfortably saved by Israel goalkeeper Ariel Harush.

Football writer Simon Harrison explained how the hosts were managing to keep Spain at bay:

Two banks of four doing their job for Israel thus far. Spain having all of the ball, but moving it side to side. Aduriz rather isolated.

— Simon Harrison (@simonhfootball) October 9, 2017

The second half started in much the same fashion, with Spain lacking in inspiration. They sent on Isco for Aritz Aduriz, searching for some way to break the deadlock.

It always looked like it would take a moment of magic to open the scoring, and so it proved on 75 minutes with Illaramendi thumping home his first international goal in some style.

Football writer Sid Lowe was certainly impressed with the Real Sociedad midfielder's goal:

Golazo! Illaramendi. What a belter

— Sid Lowe (@sidlowe) October 9, 2017

There was also time for another landmark moment, as Yossi Benayoun came on for the visitors to become the first man to reach 100 caps for Israel, as noted by AS:

Tribute paid to ex-Racing, West Ham and Liverpool man Yossi Benayoun - the 1st player to reach 100 caps with Israel https://t.co/BggybSXRsd

— AS USA (@English_AS) October 9, 2017

However, the 37-year-old could not inspire an equaliser for his side, as Spain continued their formidable record in qualifying, as highlighted by Squawka:

Spain are unbeaten in World Cup qualifiers since 1993:

WWWWWWDWWWWDWWWWWDWWDWWDWDWDWDDWWWDWWWWWWWWWWWWDDWWWWWDWWWWWWW

Absolutely absurd. pic.twitter.com/7TejCsAMlc

— Squawka (@Squawka) October 9, 2017

The game may not rank as one of Spain's finest performances, but it was another win and away from home with a much-changed side, which simply highlights what strength in depth La Roja possess.

Spain will head to Russia unbeaten in qualifying and as one of the tournament favourites, with manager Lopetegui yet to taste defeat since taking over, per Opta.

Spain will have the chance to finish the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification cycle unbeaten on Monday, when they take on Israel In Jerusalem.

The Israeli side have already been eliminated, while La Roja locked up qualification with a 3-0 win over Albania. Spain are likely to rotate their squad as they start their preparations for next year's tournament.

     

Date: Monday, October 9

Time: 7:45 p.m. BST/2:45 p.m. ET

Venue: Teddy Stadium, Jerusalem

Live Stream: Sky Go (UK), WatchESPN (U.S.)

      

Preview

Spain enjoyed a comfortable night against Albania in their previous outing, and several players already appeared to be looking beyond the challenge at hand, including David Silva and Gerard Pique.

As shared by sports writer Ryan Bailey, both seemed quite eager to get booked against Albania:

Pique and Silva both got unnecessary yellows today, ruling them out of the formality of the trip to Israel.

How convenient... #espalb

— Ryan Bailey (@RyanJayBailey) October 6, 2017

Israel have not been in great form of late, losing four straight before picking up a narrow 1-0 win against Liechtenstein. That team is currently in last place, scoring no points and conceding 35 goals―only winning 1-0 speaks to the lack of quality in the Israeli side.

The majority of the current squad plies its trade at home, and the top overseas star is Tomer Hemed of Brighton & Hove Albion.

Their opponents are expected to rotate the squad and still come up with a starting XI that is much more talented. Against Albania, the likes of Rodrigo and Alvaro Odriozola showed their tremendous quality, even if both are normally bench players at best.

Marco Asensio and Aritz Aduriz both came off the bench and are likely to start in Israel. Star youngster Kepa Arrizabalaga could replace David De Gea in goal, and Nacho is a likely replacement for the suspended Pique.

Prediction: Israel 0-2 Spain

Spain cruised to another easy win in 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying on Friday, beating Albania 3-0. And with Italy only playing out a draw with Macedonia, La Roja are now assured a spot in next year's tournament as Group G winners.

Rodrigo, Isco and Thiago Alcantara all scored in the first half, giving La Roja a comfortable lead. The Albanians improved after the break but never came close to staging a comeback.

Here's a look at the two teams, via Football Espagna:

#Spain XI vs #Albania: De Gea; Odriozola, Pique, Ramos, Alba; Koke, Saul, Thiago; Silva, Rodrigo, Isco #EspanaAlbania #ESPALB #WCQ

— Football España (@footballespana_) October 6, 2017

#Albania XI vs #Spain: Berisha; Hysaj, Veseli, Ajeti, Memolla; Balliu, Kace, Memushaj; Xhaka, Llullaku, Grezda #EspanaAlbania #ESPALB #WCQ

— Football España (@footballespana_) October 6, 2017

Albania were not expected to threaten Spain much, and early on, the match was one-way traffic. It took 13 minutes for the first major chance to develop, but when Isco did pick out Rodrigo, the Valencia man should have scored with a free header.

Minutes later, he made up for his miss with an excellent volley, with Isco again creating the chance, via sports writer Jonas Giaever:

Rodrigo has been fantastic this season for Valencia, and now he scores in his second match for Span. Beautiful pass by Isco (of course).

— Jonas Adnan Giæver (@CheGiaevara) October 6, 2017

The setback appeared to break Albania's resolve completely, and Spain increased their attacks. Etrit Berisha made a few key saves but could do nothing about Isco's excellent strike after 23 minutes, courtesy of a great feed by Koke.

Azdren Llullaku almost hit back for the visitors, hitting the crossbar with a great header that had David De Gea beat, but any hopes of an unlikely comeback were crushed when Thiago made it 3-0 with a smart header, taking advantage of some dreadful defending and a great assist from Alvaro Odriozola.

Meanwhile, Robbie Dunne of AS English noted the fans in Alicante were giving Gerard Pique a hard time, as they usually do:

Those whistles for Piqué are getting louder. This is the problem with going 3-0. People are bored now.

— Robbie Dunne (@robbiejdunne) October 6, 2017

Per Adriana Garcia of ESPN FC, Pique's stance on the Catalan independence referendum has long made him unpopular with fans of the national team and even more so in the wake of the recent violence.

Rodrigo almost doubled his tally shortly before half-time, with Berisha making a fine save, and the Valencia man missed another wide-open header to end the half.

Pique made the jeers worse by getting himself booked early in the second half, while Berisha kept his team from going down even more, making a good stop on Rodrigo.

Albania wanted a penalty after a cross appeared to make contact with Jordi Alba's arm, and Arlind Ajeti threatened with a header that narrowly went wide.

Pique's night came to an end after 60 minutes, and per Marca's Euan McTear, it may have been the last time he featured for La Roja in Spain:

Whistled-at Piqué is subbed off. He'll (almost certainly) never play competitive international football on Spanish soil again.

— Euan McTear (@emctear) October 6, 2017

The visitors mustered more chances once Pique left, with substitute Armando Sadiku in particular threatening. He twice drew good saves from De Gea, and the rebound for the second chance only just missed the target.

The pace dropped in the final 10 minutes, with the players on Spain's bench paying more attention to the match in Italy, where Macedonia equalised after 77 minutes. A late chance for Isco came to nothing, but La Roja didn't care much when they learned Italy had failed to beat Macedonia―punching Spain's ticket to Russia in the process.

Spain can ensure qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup from Group G if they better Italy's result against Macedonia when they face Albania in Alicante on Friday.

If both teams win then La Roja will require just a point in Israel in their final qualifier to book their spot in Russia, but their 3-0 victory over the Azzurri in September means only a true disaster can put them in trouble.

Spain have more than enough quality to brush aside Albania at home, and they will want to continue their excellent form after netting 11 unanswered goals in their last two fixtures.

Read on for a preview of the fixture at the Estadio Jose Rico Perez, along with scheduling and viewing details.

              

Date: Friday, October 6 

Time: 7:45 p.m. BST, 2:45 p.m. ET

TV Info: Sky Sports Red Button (UK), ESPN Deportes (U.S.)

Live Stream: Sky Go, ESPN Player

          

Preview

An 8-0 rout of Lichtenstein last time out for Spain followed their impressive 3-0 win over Italy. 

Under manager Julen Lopetegui the 2010 World Cup winners are nearly back to their ominous best, and Albania face one of the toughest tasks in football in trying to down the Spanish on their own patch. 

During the current qualifying campaign La Roja have won their four matches in Spain by an aggregate score of 19-1.

Forward Alvaro Morata, who has netted four goals in Spain's last four matches, will be missing for the Albania clash after picking up an injury at the weekend playing for Chelsea against Manchester City.

Joining the Blues man on the absentees list are Real Madrid's Dani Carvajal and Barcelona's Andres Iniesta, with the trio being replaced in the Spain squad by Athletic Bilbao striker Aritz Aduriz, Real Sociedad full-back Alvaro Odriozola and Las Palmas midfielder Jonathan Viera, per Sky Sports' Richard Cooke.

In attack, though, Spain still have immense quality to call upon, not least Real Madrid duo Isco and Marco Asensio, the former having netted a double against Espanyol on Sunday.

The hosts must not be complacent against Albania as they still have a slight chance of making the play-offs and will be desperate for a victory. FIFA World Cup provided the latest standings in Group G:

#WCQ | Group G (EUROPE)
🇲🇰FYR Macedonia 1-1 Albania🇦🇱
🇮🇹Italy 1-0 Israel🇮🇱
🇱🇮Liechtenstein 0-8 Spain🇪🇸 pic.twitter.com/YycPhVq0Qa

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) September 5, 2017

With Albania also having to play Italy in their final qualifying match, coach Christian Panucci has insisted his side will be hard to beat, per FIFA: "They're two very big matches for our players, and we're going to give it a go. That's what you always have to try and do in life and in sport. We'll try to make life hard for them. You never know in football."

Barcelona and Spain defender Gerard Pique has revealed he considered retiring from the national team over the recent criticism he has received from supporters.

In the aftermath of Pique's support for the Catalan independence referendum, he was the subject of abuse from spectators at an open training session for Spain in Madrid on Monday. He had previously said he'd be ready to walk away from the national team if his views on the ballot being held were an issue, per BBC Sport.

But speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, the 30-year-old said he will continue to represent La Roja, per journalist Richard Martin:

Pique said he is here to answer any questions journalists have, has all the time they want, and wants to solve this problem

— Richard Martin (@RichMartinMcr) October 4, 2017

Pique: "I considered leaving but I thought about it deeply and decided if I did I would be letting the minority that boo me win."

— Richard Martin (@RichMartinMcr) October 4, 2017

As reported by Ed Malyon of The Independent, at the session on Monday some supporters called Pique an "arseh--e" and encouraged him to "leave the national team."

The defender, who posted a photograph of himself voting in the referendum on Sunday on Twitter, made it clear he maintains the Catalan people should have a right to vote on independence and that discussion on the issue is important, per Football Espana:

Pique: I believe Catalans should have the right to vote on their future and respect others think differently. So let's have a conversation.

— Football España (@footballespana_) October 4, 2017

Barcelona was engulfed by unsavoury scenes on Sunday as Spanish authorities sought to stop Catalans from casting their vote in a ballot the government deemed illegal.

The disruptions in the city meant Pique's Barcelona side had to play their La Liga match with Las Palmas behind closed doors at the Camp Nou.

Pique also stressed that while he has become a symbol of Catalan identity, he has also never given his own opinion publicly on either side of the debate:

Pique: I never put myself on any side of the argument. I said people should be able to vote: to vote yes, no, or spoil their ballot. Fine.

— Football España (@footballespana_) October 4, 2017

In addition, he dismissed suggestions that he and Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos, the longstanding centre-back partners for Spain, are not on good terms. "We are very close and get on extremely well," he said, per Football Espana.

While there were plenty of serious issues discussed at the press conference, there was also time for some laughter from Pique:

A journalist and friend of Pique sends him into a fit of laughter by asking "So, Albania will be a tough game right?"

— Richard Martin (@RichMartinMcr) October 4, 2017

European football journalist Feargal Brennan praised the Barcelona defender for openly discussing the issues:

Pique giving the press conference of his life here. Composed; advocates choice and the need for dialogue between all sides in Spain 1/2

— Feargal Brennan (@FeargalBren) October 4, 2017

States he wants this problem solved and will do what he can to help. Proud of his medals with Spain (played every minute of `10+'12 success)

— Feargal Brennan (@FeargalBren) October 4, 2017

Pique will be expected to feature for Spain on Friday against Albania in Alicante alongside Ramos in defence. All eyes will be on the supporters in the stands to see if there's any reaction to the 2010 World Cup winner in light of these latest comments.

Spain have a three-point lead from Italy at the top of the World Cup 2018 qualifying Group G with two games remaining of the campaign.

Spain manager Julen Lopetegui has insisted Gerard Pique "is not a problem" after he was criticised by supporters who attended the team's open training session on Monday.

Following chaotic scenes in Barcelona on Sunday when hundreds of people were hurt trying to vote in a referendum on Catalonia's secession from Spain, Pique said he would "take a step back and leave the national team before 2018" if his support for the ballot was an issue, per BBC Sport.

Lopetegui was adamant the defender has his full backing, per Cadena Ser (h/t Football Espana):

"Pique is not a problem for us. He is an excellent footballer and boosts us so of course he will be here with us—he always gives his maximum and he is relaxed, he's fine.

"Maybe he is judged by his political views but he is undoubtedly very committed to us and has never let us down.

"Gerard is a player and I am a coach so we have to talk about football and our aims to get to the World Cup—football unites and nobody can use a football platform for political means."

Here is the moment Pique walked out for training on Monday at the session in Madrid:

Gerard Pique did not get a good reaction from Spain fans at their open training session last night 👀

(🎥 via IG/sepehr.nakhli) pic.twitter.com/q5LdkF4WXa

— B/R Football (@brfootball) October 3, 2017

Journalist David Cartlidge provided more details of the unsavoury backdrop to the session, which did not last as long as anticipated:

23 mins of training and Spain are done. Piqué goes off with security guard, objects thrown. What a mess…https://t.co/dWYrzTTOwd

— David Cartlidge (@davidjaca) October 2, 2017

According to Ed Malyon of The Independent, those who jeered Pique also called him an "arseh--e" and encouraged him to "leave the national team."

The referendum was held on Sunday, though the Spanish government deemed the vote to be illegal and sought to disrupt the ballots. Subsequently, violent scenes broke out across the region and Barcelona's La Liga match with Las Palmas at the Camp Nou was played behind closed doors.

Pique posted an image of himself voting in the referendum on his Twitter account:

Ja he votat. Junts som imparables defensant la democràcia. pic.twitter.com/mGXf7Qj1TM

— Gerard Piqué (@3gerardpique) October 1, 2017

"From today and until Sunday, let us express ourselves peacefully," he said on social media ahead of the vote, per Reuters (h/t MailOnline). "We do not give them any excuse. That's what they want. And we sing well tall and very strong."

Even before the independence referendum, Pique, as a Barcelona talisman, has been the subject of criticism from his own supporters when donning the La Roja jersey. 

The 30-year-old has represented Spain 91 times and has been a key figure in the most successful period in the nation's football history. In 2010, he helped the team to the FIFA World Cup for the first time ever, while he was also a key man in the UEFA European Championship triumph two years later.

Spain face Albania in Alicante on Friday in one of their final two World Cup qualifying matches. They lead Group G by three points ahead of Italy.

Spain will be without Alvaro Morata, Andres Iniesta and Dani Carvajal for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers as the trio have all been forced to withdraw.

La Roja announced the players had been ruled out for the international break:

🚨 OFICIAL | Iniesta, Morata y Carvajal, bajas ante Albania e Israel https://t.co/stARmpUspr pic.twitter.com/oA52wLTmvz

— Selección Española Masculina de Fútbol (@SEFutbol) October 1, 2017

According to Goal's Sacha Pisani, Carvajal could be out indefinitely following a diagnosis of "a viral infection that is affecting his pericardium, the membrane enclosing the heart."

Meanwhile, Iniesta and Morata have both suffered injuries to their left hamstrings, the former during Barcelona's 3-0 victory over Las Palmas on Sunday and the latter in Chelsea's 1-0 defeat to Manchester City the day prior.

Iniesta is expected to be out for around 10 days, while The Times' James Gheerbrant relayed Blues boss Antonio Conte's update on Morata after he was substituted 35 minutes into the City match: "I don't think it's a serious problem because he stopped before it will become a serious injury."

The striker could be able to return to action when Chelsea face Crystal Palace on October 14, but he will evidently sit out the international break.

Losing three key players is hardly ideal for manager Julen Lopetegui, but Spain will nevertheless still boast a strong squad:

📝 OFFICIAL | @SeFutbol squad named for fixtures against Albania and Israel https://t.co/l08GHQJZe8 pic.twitter.com/QOlq5wIJF8

— Selección Española Masculina de Fútbol (@SEFutbol) September 29, 2017

Spanish football writer David Cartlidge revealed the players called up to replace the trio:

Aduriz, Odriozola and Jonathan Viera all called up by Spain to replace injured Carvajal, Iniesta and Morata.

— David Cartlidge (@davidjaca) October 2, 2017

Though they're not quite of the same level, all three have made fairly strong starts to the season, with Aritz Aduriz netting seven times.

Because of Spain's vastly superior goal difference, they effectively need just three points to guarantee top spot in Group G and automatic qualification to the World Cup, so even without three of their stars, it shouldn't be too difficult for them to do so.

They'll face Albania and Israel in their two matches, whom La Roja dished out 2-0 and 4-1 defeats to earlier in the campaign, respectively.