Scouting The Group Stages – Group B

Group B will in all likelihood see defeat for the Australian national side in every match. But with World Cup winners Spain as well as the Netherlands joining them, there is plenty of choice for points at both ends of the pitch in this highly competitive group. Chile complete Group B’s quartet and look a good side for those looking for potentially high-scoring differentials.

The Defence

Spain

The Spanish back-line is one of experience, both at club and international level, having played together for numerous years. Team captain Iker Casillas (Real Madrid) is likely to take his place between the sticks for his final World Cup, and should see little competition to oust him from this position. The likes of Gerard Pique (Barcelona) and Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid) are commanding figures in their respective back-lines, and offer attacking returns as well as defensive solidity. Jordi Alba (Barcelona) has made the left flank his own, whereas the right flank is open to competition. Daniel Carvajal (Real Madrid) has impressed at his first season for the Spanish giants, and should see him into the spot, though both Juanfran (Atletico Madrid) and Cesar Azpilacueata (Chelsea) have also had successful seasons at their clubs.

The Midfield

Spain

Quite frankly, Spain have the luxury of vast pool of talent to choose from. All bar Jesus Navas (Manchester City) are integral parts of their sides, and it really is a lottery  guessing who will start and who will not. The Barcelona trio of Xavi, Iniesta and Busquets form a technical master class in passing, and have been first choice in the past, but with Fabregas widely regarded as the form midfielder of the team, choosing is difficult. Xabi Alonso has the experience as a midfielder, but looks set to play deeper, if at all. Similar in position, Ander Itturaspe plays deeper in the holding role, and has had an excellent season for Bilbao, resulting in his call-up. The young talent of Atletico, Koke, with seven goals and 15 assists in all campaigns, is one to watch, especially his flexibility to play anywhere in the midfield. Finally, the Premier League offers the talents of Juan Mata, David Silva, Santi Cazorla and Jesus Navas, although choosing who will start is, again, down to the opponents and tournament form.

Netherlands

The Dutch midfield is one of interest due to the attacking players. After listing Arjen Robben (Bayern Munich) as a midfielder, we could be offered the prospect of an out-of-position player; he is likely to play on the right of a front trio, should manager Louis van Gaal go with wingers. With 15 goals and 10 assists in all competitions, Robben goes into the competition in good form. Wesley Sneijder has also recently found form for Galatasaray (scoring three times in his last three games) and could be the catalyst to drive the Dutch attack forward. Jordy Clasie (Feyenoord) is likely to play deeper, but is a young prospect that has plenty of talent.

The Forwards

Spain

The Spanish go into this competition with a strong forward line. The recently acquired Brazilian-born (and possibly Chelsea bound) Diego Costa is touted to lead the line for the tournament, providing fitness problems are cleared. Firing 35 goals in all competitions, Costa will be the main focal point for the Spanish attack, utilising his strength and aggression to bully his way through defences. His partner in crime, David Villa, can be used as the forward or on the left of the attacking three, and with 13 goals this season, could be in consideration. Barcelona’s Pedro Rodriguez has had one of his best seasons yet, and is likely to be used on the wings. Both Fernando Llorente and Alvaro Negredo offer strength in the air and finishing ability, with 18 and 14 goals respectively, both are capable of making an impact. Finally, Fernando Torres may have had yet another disappointing season to add to his collection but his international tournament record is quite good, scoring eight times in 12 appearances.

Netherlands

The Dutch defence may be lacking in standout figures, but the forward line is bristling with talent. The star man of the show is Robin van Persie. Working with his future club manager, the forward is first choice, and will likely be on penalties as well. Although an injury-ridden campaign has seen his game time fluctuate, Van Persie is expected to be fully fit for the tournament. Another natural finisher, Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, has also been hit with injuries, but despite just 19 starts, still scored 13, including being one of a select few players that have put the ball past Iker Casillas (Real Madrid and Spain’s goalkeeper) during the Champions League. Jermain Lens and Memphis Depay are two PSV-bred wingers, and both will be fighting it out for a spot on the wing, but picking either is a risk. Jean-Paul Boëtius and Quincy Promes is more than likely there to gain experience, whereas Dirk Kuyt is there because of his good recent form, having scored 10 goals this season for Fenerbahce.

The Differentials

Arturo Vidal (Chile) – On penalties for both his club Juventus and country, the enthusiastic box-to-box midfielder is one of the best in the world. Expect recovered balls aplenty, and a long shot or two.

Alexis Sanchez (Chile) – 19 goals and 11 assists in his best season yet for his club side Barcelona. He also put two past England last time they played, and is likely to be the Chileans creative spark.

Gary Medel (Chile) – Listed as a defender (and most likely to play there for them) he has been pushed into midfield for an out-of-position prospect when Chile begin chasing the game. Points for recovered balls are key.

Javi Martinez (Spain) – Mixes between a defensive midfield role and at the centre of the back four, Martinez was also thrown on as a false nine during the Confederations Cup in order to get some height into the box. Not likely to happen with Diego Costa in form, but best to mention.