Chile and Spain go head to head today.
For Spain it is a must win situation. Only top of the group will do because even if they qualify as runners up, they could meet Brazil if they win or draw Portugal in their match today. It is between a rock and a hard place.
A win with their potent attack firing on all cylinders and putting away those numerous chances will be a huge confidence booster no matter who they face in the group of 16.
Spain goes to its 4-3-3 formation with Torres in the middle, Iniesta and Villa outside, forming a trident. Torres will be looking to shake of that rust and get his timing and accuracy back in his shots.
Del Bosque has gone for two holding midfielders in Xabi Alonso and Sergio Busquets, a move which he was criticized for by Luis Aragones. The former Spanish coach was fortunate in having the services of Marcos Senna. Look for a second half substitution with Cesc Fabregas coming on if the midfield is not able to push the ball upfield quickly enough.
The defense has to be wary of El Conejo, the scampering Alexis Sanchez and El Chupete, the bull like figure of Humberto Suazo who scores a lot of goals. In the midfield lurks Matias Fernandez, their playmaker who will try and find that outlet which will bisect Gerard Pique and Joan Capdevila. There is a lot of speed down the Chilean flanks with Sanchez and Beausejour which the veteran Spanish defense will try and snuff out through experience.
A gripping match is at hand. Both teams might be nervously looking at Honduras vs Switzerland as these two countries including the Catrachos with a very outside chance could pull of a huge upset. All bets are off in this World Cup as the group stage winds down.