Spain drew 1-1 with Germany in Group E of the 2022 World Cup on Sunday night. We take a look at three talking points from the game.
1 | Luis Enrique trusts Rodri in defence
Many expected Eric García or Pau Torres to partner Aymeric Laporte at centre-back but Luis Enrique decided to go with Rodri again. Rodri and Laporte can work well together and have a natural understanding thanks to their time together at Manchester City. Luis Enrique only made one change to the side that defeated Costa Rica 7-0 but will be disappointed his team conceded after taking the lead.
2 | Spain’s strength in depth
Spain have the players on the bench to light up a match at any moment. Nico Williams, Yéremi Pino and Ansu Fati can all come off the bench and make a difference. When the opposition is tiring, the fresh legs can decide matches late on. Athletic Club’s electric forward Nico Williams was introduced in the second half and set up Álvaro Morata for a chance late on but the forward, who scored Spain’s goal on the night, was denied by Nico Schlotterbeck as he went through on goal.
3 | Dani Olmo is underrated
Dani Olmo goes about his business quietly and doesn’t get all the limelight, but he does everything so well. There is a reason Luis Enrique is such a fan of the RB Leipzig player. The Asturian coach made four changes but kept Olmo on the pitch. Ansu Fati was left on the bench and he will be wondering what he has to do to get a chance. Manuel Neuer denied Olmo from distance with a shot that was deflected onto the crossbar.
World Cup PLAYER RATINGS | Spain 1-1 Germany
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