World Cup 2014 Qualifier Match Preview: Spain vs Finland

Posted on March 20, 2013 by SoccerPunter

It remains unclear if Barcelona and Spain midfielder Xavi will be fit to play in the 2014 World Cup qualifying matches against Finland and France.

However, SoccerPunter believe that it is unlikely that Spain Coach Vicente Del Bosque will risk playing Xavi because he is still recovering from a thigh injury. Moreover, there are other qualified Spanish players whom will be ready to fill his boots.

On the other hand, David De Gea has received his first international call-up to Spain after an impressive performance at Manchester United. De Gea will be on the bench to provide cover for Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes.

Iker Casillas remains sidelined due to hand injury.

The 33-year-old Barcelona star is set to train apart from the rest of the squad over the coming days and may be rested by coach Vicente Del Bosque for Friday’s tie against Finland, with the potential Group I decider against France next Tuesday in Paris.

“Having looked at the tests carried out today (Tuesday), the player will take part in individual training over the next few days in order to reintegrate back into the squad,” read a federation statement.

The World Cup winner has only recently come back from a hamstring problem and suffered the latest injury in Barcelona’s 4-0 humbling of AC Milan in last week’s Champions League Last 16 second leg clash.

Spain lead France only on goal difference with both teams on seven points after three matches, while Finland are bottom of the pool with one point from two outings.

Georgia on four points and Belarus on three complete the group.