Preview: Spain vs. Japan

Spain head into yet another football tournament regarded as one of the favourites to claim the top prize.

Coach Luis Milla has a host of talent at his disposal, despite the recent withdrawal of Barcelona attacker Thiago through injury.

Athletic Bilbao winger Iker Muniain is also considered a doubt for this match against Japan tomorrow with a thigh complaint. The 19-year-old has undergone a scan and is awaiting the results of a scan.

Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea is expected to start between the posts, while Chelsea's Juan Mata should play in an advanced role.

Many reports have claimed that Japan coach Takashi Sekizuka will lean heavily on his defence to nullify any threat that the Spaniards may pose.

Possible starting lineups:

Spain: De Gea; Alba, Montoya, Botia, Azpilicueta; Martinez, Isco, Romeul; Mata, Adrian, Tello

Japan: Gonda; Tokunaga, Sakai, Yoshida, Suzuki; Ohgihara, Usami, Kiyotake, Higashi; Otsu, Saito

Sports Mole says: 3-0

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