Spain have been handed a comparatively kind fixture in the last 16 of Euro 2020, with a date with Croatia set for Monday.
Luis Enrique’s men are favourites for the game and come into the clash in high spirits, having thumped Slovakia 5-0 in their final group-stage match. They will hope to carry that momentum into a game against a Croatia side who only sealed their passage through to the knockout rounds in their final group game – a 3-1 win over Scotland at Hampden Park.
Here’s 90min’s prediction for Enrique’s starting 11.
Unai Simon (GK) – Two clean sheets from three games is a solid return from Simon, who will be hoping to add one more here.
Marcos Llorente (RB) – Cesar Azpilicueta did well against Slovakia, but Llorente’s marauding runs down the right could be key to overwhelming Croatia’s defence.
Aymeric Laporte (CB) – Laporte has been excellent so far, Spain must be ecstatic to have finally convinced him to represent them.
Pau Torres (CB) – Scouts from across Europe are watching Torres, and a big performance here could convince a club to get their chequebook out.
Jordi Alba (LB) – Jose Gaya is a capable option here, but Alba’s veteran leadership and experience in major tournaments may be needed to help a relatively inexperienced backline.
Rodri (DM) – Sergio Busquets is still getting back up to scratch after testing positive for COVID-19, and there’s no better deputy at the base of midfield than Rodri.
Pedri (CM) – The star of Spain’s tournament so far, Pedri has to be the first name on Enrique’s team sheet at this point. He’s been unreal.
Koke (CM) – A firm favourite of Enrique, expect Koke to complete the midfield trio.
Pablo Sarabia (RW) – Spain’s top performer against Slovakia, Sarabia has earned himself another start, although Ferran Torres might have something to say about that.
Gerard Moreno (ST) – Alvaro Morata really needs some time out of the spotlight. He’s facing ugly abuse because of his poor performances, so although Enrique loves him, it’s time for Moreno up top.
Dani Olmo (LW) – Rested last time out against Slovakia, Olmo is ready to return to the starting lineup, although some underwhelming performances from the first two matches have opened the door for Mikel Oyarzabal to take his place.
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