Spain suffered their first-ever defeat to the Swiss in their opening match and the Euro 2008 winners can now ill afford anything less than victory over the Central American minnows.
The Swiss defeat was only Spain’s second defeat in 49 matches, but with momentum the key to progressing at the World Cup, the Spanish are already on the back foot and midfielder Xabi Alonso says there is no room for error.
“We need to take it step by step. No doubt this game is crucial because there’s no margin for error,” said Alonso. “We’re expecting a difficult game. Honduras didn’t get a good result against Chile and therefore it’s an important match.
“They’re strong physically, with solid players at the back. And they will want to make things difficult for us.”
But Honduras insist they will push Spain all the way, although coach Reinaldo Rueda is expecting to feel the full force of a Spanish backlash.
“We should not be distracted by the result. As one of the favourites and having lost their first game, Spain will be even more determined,” Rueda said.
“That result means they will face us with greater intensity. We cannot think the game will be easy. On the contrary, for me it will be more difficult.”
Published in The Express Tribune, June 21st, 2010.
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