
Del Bosque plays down chances
Spain coach Vicente del Bosque was keen to play down talk of his side being favourites to win the World Cup.
Last night's 2-1 win over Armenia not only kept already-qualified Spain on course for a perfect 10 in World Cup qualifying, but also means that in 41 matches since the start of 2007 they have won 36 times, drawn four - of which two finished with Spanish triumphs after extra time - and lost just once.
During that time the Iberian nation were crowned European champions, broke the international record for successive wins with 15 and equalled Brazil's record of 35 matches unbeaten before Del Bosque's men surprisingly lost to the USA at this summer's Confederations Cup.
It is an amazing record and a big reason why many are tipping Spain to be the team to beat in the World Cup finals in South Africa, but for Del Bosque it is too soon to be talking about what may happen next summer.
"Talk of winning the World Cup is premature, we've never managed it (win the World Cup)," said Del Bosque.
"Although it's true that there is optimism in Spain, who appreciate how the national team are playing, there is a long road ahead of us and on it we will meet very strong teams."
After seeing off Armenia thanks to goals from Cesc Fabregas and Juan Manuel Mata, whose winning penalty came in the 64th minute and not long after Armenia had netted a shock equaliser through Robert Arzumanyan, Spain now turn their attentions to trying to complete a perfect qualifying record when they meet Bosnia-Herzegovina on Wednesday.
Del Bosque felt the Armenia game was a difficult one for his side, and the upcoming fixture is likely to be another test for the European champions with Bosnia-Herzegovina assured of finishing second in Group Five and going into the play-offs.
"Bosnia's qualification (for the play-offs) is fair and deserved. They've earned it. Against us they showed they were a good team," added Del Bosque.
The Spain coach will ring the changes to his side for the game in Zenica, with a number of players who featured against Armenia not taking part.
Those who will definitely not be involved are Carles Puyol (suspended), Carlos Marchena, Xavi and Dani Guiza (injuries) and Fabregas (personal matter), with all five having been given permission to leave the squad.
Striker Fernando Torres (adductor in right leg) and midfielder Andres Iniesta (right thigh) also finished last night match complaining of niggles and the duo will be monitored over the next few days to see if they will be able to feature against Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Spain doctor Oscar Celada is optimistic about the pair's chances of being fit but said "we must be very prudent".
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