World Cup Preview: Spain versus Paraguay
Spain’s 1-0 win over Portugal in the Round of 16 of the 2010 World Cup appears to have been a rehearsal for the quarterfinal match against Paraguay. Portugal’s primary focus was defense and Spain was able to be creative and resourceful in getting the win. Paraguay will also be defense-minded, having made it this far in the tournament by way of their tough defense.
Having lost to World Cup odds favorite, Switzerland in their opening game, Spain is trying to become the first team to win the World Cup after losing their first match. They played well enough during the rest of group play to win the group and appear to be back on track.
Spain’s midfield that includes Xavi, Xabi Alonso, and Sergio Busquets is arguably the best in the tournament. Up front, striker David Villa has scored a tournament-best four goals, including their lone goal against Portugal.
Paraguay is qualifying for the quarterfinals for the first time in history. They have made it this far by winning Group F and after defeating Japan on penalty kicks in their Round of 16 match. Their defense has carried them in each game, having only given up one game in the four games they have played.
All the pressure will be on the Spaniards. As the reigning Euro 2008 champs, they were pegged as the favorites to win the World Cup and they have played well enough in recent games to be worthy of that designation. They proved against Portugal that they can penetrate nine-man defenses and they will be favored against Paraguay.
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