The build up for Spain's World Cup opener has been calamitous with manager Julen Lopetegui sacked 24 hours before the start of the tournament.
La Roja have therefore had to improvise by appointing sporting director Fernando Hierro as coach for the competition.
The legendary former Real Madrid defender will lead an incredibly talented squad of players in Russia, yet the massive disruption to their preparations makes Friday's game against Portugal even more of a challenge.
Latest odds
Spain did not lose a game under Lopetegui and despite his dismissal, they remain clear favourites to record a victory in Sochi.
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bet365 price the 2010 winners at 11/10 (2.10), while Portugal are offered at 16/5 (4.20) and the draw can be backed at 11/5 (3.20).
Team news
Spain right-back Dani Carvajal has been a doubt for this game since picking up an injury in the Champions League final three weeks ago.
He has been training with the rest of his team-mates this week, however, and could be in line to start, but Real Sociedad's Alvaro Odriozola will deputise if Carvajal is deemed unfit.
Preview
The first group game at a major tournament is always vital and even more so when it pits the two strongest teams against one another.
Both will be focused on not losing and we could well be in for an extremely tight encounter as whilst Spain are notoriously strong at the back, Portugal have recently developed into a team that are tough to break down.
During their victorious run at Euro 2016, the Portuguese kept four clean sheets in seven games and if they are to have any hope of coming close to repeating that continental success, defensive solidity will be key.
Tips and predictions
A high scoring game is not expected in Sochi, with under 2.5 goals offered at just 8/15 (1.53).
More attractive is backing under 2.5 goals and opposing both teams to score at 19/20 (1.95), whilst no goal before the 34th minute at 5/6 (1.83) also appeals.
Prices correct at time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.
No goal before 34th minute at 5/6 (1.83) with bet365 for a 1.5pt stake
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