Spain are one of the major favourites to lift the Euro 2016 in France, but were held to a 1-1 draw by Italy in their last friendly. Spain is set to face Romania in another friendly, and the visitors will want to defeat the host at the Cluj Arena in Cluj-Napoca, Sunday.
Spain have an incredible number of quality players in their side, but they did not play to their full potential against Italy. With Euro 2016 just a few months away, the players seem to be cautious as picking up injuries might cost them a place in the ever competitive squad.
But for some players like Aritz Aduriz, who is trying to impress the national team coach, Vincente del Bosque, such games are of huge importance to the striker. The forward has already shown his class with a goal against Italy, and one should not be surprised if Aduriz becomes Spain's number one striker.
Del Bosque picked David de Gea as the number one goalkeeper against Italy, but it remains to be seen if Iker Casillas will return under the bar for Spain against Romania. With de Gea coming up with a quality performance, Casillas' chances remain slim.
With stars in Spain squad, players are also willing to play whatever position the coach wants. Midfielder Koke also falls in the same bracket and expects a tough clash against Romania.
"I'm comfortable playing wherever I'm told. I'm happy to play wherever the boss needs me to play," Marca quoted Koke as saying.
"We have to give our all for the national team. Euro 2016 isn't far away at all, and we're all really excited. Pulling on the red shirt of Spain is always amazing and special for me. It'll be a well-fought contest against Romania."
Spain might be considered favouriotes, but Romania's record has been stupendous. They are on a 16-game unbeaten streak, and have played some quality football of late. Romania defeated Lithuania 1-0 in their last friendly, and are eager to defeat Spain as well.
Like all other teams, Romania are also preparing for Euro 2016, and are looking to find their best team for the competition. Defeating Spain in front of their home fans could further bolster their morale ahead of the mega competition.
However, Romania, who are a solid defensive unit, will miss the services of Laszlo Sepsi due to injury. Spain, on the other hand, are set to miss Sergio Ramos, who was injured in their last encounter against Italy.
Where to watch live
Italy vs Spain is scheduled for a 6:45 p.m. GMT (12:15 am IST, 1:45 p.m. ET) start. There is no live TV coverage in India.
Viewers in Spain and Romania can watch the game on TeleCinco Espana and Dolce Sport 1.
Audience in the U.S. can watch the game on beIN Sports USA and stream the game live on beIN Sports Connect.
