Spain
Group H | World ranking: 5 Coach: Luis Aragones
Key Players: Iker Casillas (goalkeeper), Carlos Puyol (defender), Fernando Torres (forward)
Past Record: 4th-placed 1950; quarter-finals 1934, 1986, 1994, 2002; Last 16 1990 Group H Results:
June 14: Ukraine (4-0 | Report)
June 19: Tunisia (3-1 | Report)
June 23: Saudi Arabia (1-0 | Report) Knockout Stages:
June 27: France (1-3 | Report) Group Summary:
Usually slow starters, Spain launched their campaign in stunning fashion with a 4-0 win over Ukraine and then sealed their place in the second round with a 3-1 win over Tunisia, overturning a one-goal deficit late in the match. With three goals to his name already Fernando Torres has been one of the World Cup's best performers so far while midfield operators Xabi, Xabi Alonso and Cesc Fabregas have also impressed. Pre-Tournament Preview:
Spain have flattered to deceive so often in major finals that it will almost be a surprise if a disaster did not befall them in some way in Germany. Qualifying proved problematic with Spain failing to win any of their four games against main rivals Serbia and Montenegro and Bosnia -- only coming to life when thrashing Slovakia 6-2 on aggregate in their play-off. That said, they have a squad brim full of talented individuals and remain unbeaten since fiery coach Aragones took over from Inaki Saez after Euro 2004. Barcelona captain Puyol is a rock at the back and in young Atletico Madrid striker Torres they could have one of the stars of the tournament. Squad Goalkeepers:
1. Iker Casillas (Real Madrid)
19. Santiago Canizares (Valencia)
23. Pepe Reina (Liverpool) Defenders:
2. Michel Salgado (Real Madrid)
3. Asier del Horno (Chelsea)
4. Carlos Marchena (Valencia)
5. Carles Puyol (Barcelona)
12. Antonio Lopez (Atletico Madrid)
15. Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid)
20. Juanito (Real Betis)
22. Pablo Ibanez (Atletico Madrid) Midfielders:
6. David Albelda (Valencia)
8. Xavi (Barcelona)
10. Jose Antonio Reyes (Arsenal)
11. Luis Garcia (Liverpool)
13. Andres Iniesta (Barcelona)
14. Xabi Alonso (Liverpool)
16. Marcos Senna (Villarreal)
17. Joaquin (Real Betis)
18. Cesc Fabregas (Arsenal) Forwards:
7. Raul (Real Madrid)
9. Fernando Torres (Atletico Madrid)
21. David Villa (Valencia)
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