The Stats Zone
· Trystan Pugh

2018 FIFA World Cup – Spain vs Morocco Preview

Post Share

AT A GLANCE

When? Monday 25th June, 19:00

Where? Kaliningrad Stadium

What channel is it on? BBC4

Where can I stream the match? BBC license holders can stream the match online via BBC iPlayer

Are tickets still available? https://www.ticketbisevents.com/en/group-b-portugal-spain-morocco-iran-tickets/ca5911

THE TEAM NEWS

SPAIN

  • Spain know that a point will likely be enough to seal qualification to the Round of 16 but they will want to produce a good performance here and try to secure top spot in the group ahead of Portugal.
  • Hierro may consider one or two changes to keep some of his older players like Iniesta and David Silva fresh so Thiago may come in, while Marco Asensio could also come in for Lucas Vazquez.
  • Monreal is a slight doubt with a virus, but otherwise Hierro has plenty of options if he does decide to make some changes to the side.

Predicted line-up (4-3-3):

De Gea

Carvajal, Sergio Ramos, Pique, Alba

David Silva, Busquets, Iniesta

Lucas Vazquez, Diego Costa, Isco

Unavailable: None

Doubtful: Monreal

MOROCCO

  • Morocco are already eliminated after two defeats but Herve Renard's men will want to leave Russia with some pride after this game before they return home.
  • Renard may contemplate various changes however he will not want to weaken his side too much against a strong team like Spain and risk an embarrassing defeat.
  • El Kaabi could come back in to lead the attack, while the likes of Fajr, Carcela and Harit could all be pushing for starts here if they do make some rotations in the more advanced positions which is most likely.

Predicted line-up (4-2-3-1):

Munir

Dirar, Benatia, Da Costa, Hakimi

El Ahmadi, Boussoufa

N. Amrabat, Ziyech, Belhanda

El Kaabi

Unavailable: None

Doubtful: None

THE PREDICTION

Spain are growing into this competition but are still not completely convincing. That said, they should have no issues against an eliminated Moroccan side who have offered little so far and have failed to score in both games. Expect a win and clean sheet for Spain here.

TSZ Latest