Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Spain vs Georgia


Spain welcome Georgia in their 2014 World Cup qualifier on Tuesday knowing that one point would be enough to ensure their spot in Brazil next summer.

The world and European champions recorded a 2-1 win over Belarus on Friday, a result that moved them three points clear of second-place France, who have 14 points from their seven Group I matches.

A loss could also see Vicente del Bosque's side advance, but they would be relying on France to slip up at home to Finland, who have no chance of securing second spot in the group.

Meanwhile, Georgia are certain to finish fourth in the group having taken five points from their seven matches. They have picked up just one win, but they sit one point above bottom side Belarus, who have played all eight of their Group I matches.

Swansea City forward Michu made his international debut for Spain against Belarus, but he is expected to drop to the bench with Manchester City's Alvaro Negredo, who found the back of the net last time out, expected to lead the line.

Andres Iniesta could also return to the first XI, while Koke could come into the team at full-back in place of Nacho Monreal. Victor Valdes is also expected to keep Iker Casillas on the sidelines for the second time in four days.

Georgia, meanwhile, have no fresh injury concerns ahead of the match and are expected to name their strongest available side. Former Blackburn Rovers defender Zurab Khizanishvili should start at centre-back, while Bachana Tskhadadze could win his first cap for his country.

Recent form

Spain: LWWDW

Georgia: LLLDL

Possible starting lineups

Spain: Valdes; Arbeloa, Ramos, Pique, Koke; Busquets, Iniesta, Xavi; Silva, Negredo, Pedro

Georgia: Loria; Lobjanidze, Kashia, Khizanishvili, Khubutia; Kankava, Ananidze, Dolidze, Targamadze; Kobakhidze, Dvalishvili

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