Spain vs Bulgaria: Following in the Footsteps of a Legendary Team

ago 6 hours
Spain vs Bulgaria: Following in the Footsteps of a Legendary Team

On Tuesday, the Spanish national football team is set to face Bulgaria in Valladolid at 20:45 CET. This match plays a crucial role in their bid for qualification for the upcoming World Cup, to be jointly held in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Head coach Luis de la Fuente noted that a victory would significantly raise their chances of securing qualification.

Legacy of a Legendary Team

Spain’s current squad is drawing parallels to the legendary team managed by Vicente del Bosque, which won the Euro 2008, the 2010 World Cup, and Euro 2012. That historic team achieved an impressive run of 29 consecutive competitive matches without defeat. Under de la Fuente’s leadership, the current team has matched the remarkable 28-game unbeaten streak, only two short of Italy’s world record of 31.

Facing Bulgaria

Bulgaria currently sits at the bottom of their qualifying group. They have conceded 12 goals while managing to score just once in their first three matches. This performance has left them without any points, a situation that mirrors the struggles faced by teams like Luxembourg and San Marino in previous qualifying campaigns.

Preparation and Challenges

  • Prior to the match, the Spanish camp has not been without its issues.
  • De la Fuente included Lamine Yamal in the squad despite the Barcelona club not providing a medical report.
  • Shortly afterward, Barcelona declared Yamal injured.
  • Other players like Huijsen and Dani Olmo have also faced fitness concerns, with Olmo expected to miss two weeks due to a soleus injury.
  • Ferran Torres returned home with overexertion, prompting de la Fuente to emphasize the team’s priority on player health.

Despite these challenges, Spain managed a commanding victory against Georgia in Elche, showcasing their depth and resilience. Players such as Rodri, Fabián, Carvajal, and Nico Williams, who did not join the squad, were also not missed. Now, Spain is poised to continue their pursuit of historical records and World Cup qualification.