Spain, by the look of their squad, form and style of play, look a far better side. With players such as Xavi, Alonso, Iniesta, Fabregas, and Torres among the many world-class players, and make their team a strong unit. They need to showcase their skills during the match today, which they could not in their first match.

Del Bosque surprised many football pundits around the world when they did not include any striker in their first match. He opted for Fabregas and benched Torres, Llorente, and Negredo, who are top European strikers. Del Bosque might have to re-think about this strategy, as they need an out and out striker to score goals. They have a superb line up of midfielders in the squad, hence, they should use them to assist the striker and not ask them to play an unfamiliar role of a striker.

But Spain are wary of the threat that the Irish team brings to the table. They would give it their all, as it is a do or die game for them to stay alive in the competition. Players such as D. Duff, R. Keane, and Keith Andrews need to come up with their 'A' class game to defeat the defending champions. Shay Given, their goalkeeper, is expected to be busy during the game, so he has a huge role to play in the match.

The Spanish players are masters of keeping the ball at their feet, which means it would be difficult for the Irish players to have control over the game. It would be better suited if the Irish team has a tight midfield, and plays a counter-attacking game, whenever they get a chance to attack. As mentioned earlier, Spain are favourites but we cannot count out the Irish team as in the European championship it is always unpredictable to pick a winner.