FIFA World Cup 2022 : After a tumultuous and trophy-less last decade, the positive glow is back for Spain who return to the FIFA World Cup boasting one of the most exciting and youthful teams in Qatar 2022. Spain will begin their campaign on November 23 when they lock horns with Costa Rica.
After their World Cup triumph in 2010 and Euro Cup title two years later, Spain have struggled to transition from their golden generation of Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Sergio Ramos. Dumped out of the 2014 World Cup at the group stage and in the last 16 by Italy at Euro 2016, Spain then self-imploded at the last World Cup by sacking manager Julian Lopetegui on the eve of the tournament.
But in the four years that have prevailed since their exit at the hands of hosts Russia in the pre-quarterfinals in 2018, things have started to look up for Luis Enrique's new-look side. Boosted by the emergence of new talents like Barcelona trio Gavi, Pedri and Ansu Fati, Spain topped UEFA Group B on the road to Qatar 2022.
Despite Spain having some of the world's best talent, Luis Enrique's side lacks valuable experience within the squad. Veteran midfielder Sergio Busquets will keep a check on Gavi and Pedri in the centre of the park. However, there is no place for Manchester United stalwart David de Gea despite his promising return to form recently in the Premier League. Athletic Bilbao's Unai Simon is expected to be La Roja's starting keeper in Qatar, largely because manager Enrique values his ability with the ball at his feet.
Spain are placed in Group E, which consists of Costa Rica, Germany and Japan.
Date: November 23
Match 1: Spain vs Costa Rica
Time (IST): 9:30 PM
Venue: Doha
Date: November 28
Match 2: Spain vs Germany
Time (IST): 12:30 AM
Venue: Al-Khor
Date: December 2
Match 3: Sapin vs Japan
Time (IST): 12:30 AM
Venue: Doha
Goalkeepers: Unai Simon (Athletic Club), Robert Sanchez (Brighton & Hove Albion), David Raya (Brentford FC).
Defenders: Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea FC), Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid), Eric Garcia (FC Barcelona), Hugo Guillamon (Valencia CF), Pau Torres (Villarreal CF), Aymeric Laporte (Manchester City), Jordi Alba (FC Barcelona), Jose Gaya (Valencia CF).
Midfielders: Sergio Busquets (FC Barcelona), Rodri Hernandez (Manchester City), Gavi (FC Barcelona), Carlos Soler (Paris St Germain), Marcos Llorente (Atletico de Madrid), Pedri Gonzalez (FC Barcelona), Koke Resurreccion (Atletico de Madrid).
Forwards: Ferran Torres (FC Barcelona), Nico Williams (Athletic Club), Yeremi Pino (Villarreal CF), Alvaro Morata (Atletico de Madrid), Marco Asensio (Real Madrid), Pablo Sarabia (Paris St Germain), Dani Olmo (RB Leipzig), Ansu Fati (FC Barcelona).
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