Juan Mata insists Spain’s hopes of retaining the World Cup “aren’t dead yet” despite a hammering by Holland and a decisive clash against Chile lying in wait.
The 5-1 humbling by a Robin van Persie inspired Dutch side in the Group B opener on Friday was the world and European champions’ heaviest loss in over 50 years.
The manner of the defeat – in which Van Persie and Arjen Robben each scored twice – raised questions about Spain’s tika-taka style.
But Manchester United midfielder Mata, who started on the bench in Salvador, does not think Spain need to re-think their tactics against Chile on Wednesday at the Maracana.
“We aren’t dead yet,” he said. “Losing was a big blow for everyone, but we have to keep the same attitude we have had so we can continue in the same way we always have done.
“We have to keep trusting in this style of play, it has led us to many triumphs and it allows us to control games, so I don’t see a reason why we should play another way.
“I feel prouder than ever to belong to this group, this generation. We have remained united in the good times but above all during the bad times, and we have always believed in our football.
“I have to say that since I arrived here this group has felt like a family, I feel like any other player, the relationship between everyone is fundamental to this team.”
Iker Casillas, who admitted his performance against the Dutch was the worst of his career, could be given a stay of execution after Manchester United keeper David De Gea strained a leg muscle.
New Chelsea signing Cesc Fabregas could return, though, while Pedro and Atletico Madrid’s Koke will be vying to make Vicente Del Bosque’s starting XI.
Spain beat Chile 2-1 in the group stages in South Africa four years ago and will realistically need to win again if they are to progress to the last 16.
Chile have not changed much since the last World Cup with nine players who played against Spain available on Wednesday, including Alexis Sanchez who will be looking to impress against several of his Barcelona teammates.
Arturo Vidal, who played an hour in the 3-1 victory over Australia, is still building fitness after knee surgery and he’s looking to build on a positive start.
“We hope to play well against Spain, take the three points, and if we knock them out that would be great but we didn’t come here to knock out Spain, we came here to win the World Cup,” said the Juventus midfielder.
“As world champions, Spain have quality. They have great players who will go onto the field full of rage.”
Main image courtesy of 5MAG via YouTube, with thanks.
