Spain (4-1-4-1) - 2014 World Cup Brazil - ShareMyTactics.com
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These are the tactics Spain are likely to use during the 2014 Brazil World Cup based on their qualifying campaign, unless there are any late injuries or sudden changes in form. Vicente Del Bosque has used a number of different formations throughout Spain's eight qualifying matches. 4-3-3 was used twice, 4-6-0 -- also known as the false number nine -- was selected three times, as was 4-1-4-1. I think Spain is most likely to use the latter system, for the simple reason that is Diego Costa's incredible form. The oriundo has scored 35 goals in all competitions this season for Atlético Madrid, at the time of writing, and I can't see how Del Bosque can leave him out of the starting XI. The two wing-backs Alba and Arbeloa will look to push on and join the attack. By overlapping the wingers Silva and Pedro, this will cause overloading down that flank and create a numerical advantage, such as two attackers versus one defender. Arbeloa is a serious doubt for the tournament after suffering a knee injury in March. The Real Madrid right-back is expected to return for the last two La Liga matches of the season but if time runs out for the 31-year-old, it will most likely be Atlético's Juanfran who gets the nod. Barcelona's Busquets will perform the midfield holding role. The 25-year-old will drop back into the centre-back position to form a defending three when La Roja are attacking and the culé will help Spain build moves from the back.
