Spain's del Bosque Expected To Start Pique With Xavi, Xabi & Fabregas

La Furia Roja look set to unleash their full midfield prowess on the Americans.

Jun 23, 2009 10:21:49 PM

More On :  Spain, USA
Pique, Xavi, Ramos, Spain (MARCA)

Spain coach Vicente del Bosque will reinstate his strongest possible starting XI to take on the United States in the semi-finals of the FIFA Confederations Cup.

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Having made a number of changes in their final group game against South Africa last weekend, the trainer experimented with his preferred line up during Tuesday’s training session and there were little surprises.

According to AS, del Bosque will employ Cesc Fabregas and Xabi Alonso in a double pivot role to curb the threat of Ricardo Clark and Michael Bradley. Xavi will also pack the center of the park, but he will be given a free reign further upfront. Albert Riera will retain his slot in the left side of midfield, even though David Silva has showed signs that he has made a full recovery from a niggling injury.

Fernando Torres and David Villa will lead the attack as usual, but full-back Sergio Ramos may have to pull double duty to help inject more attacking impetus on the right flank.

The only surprise inclusion could be Gerard Pique, who would take over from Raul Albiol at the center of defense as del Bosque looks to combat the height advantage and the physical strength that the Americans have, especially from Oguchi Onyewu. 

The match will kick off at 20:30 CET on Wednesday. 

KS Leong, Goal.com

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