Mini revolution as Hierro makes three changes for Spain vs Russia
Hierro has rung the changes as he looks to freshen up his side against the World Cup hosts with Asensio replacing Iniesta being the most surprising
The Last 16 matches at the World Cup in Russia continue today as the hosts face off against Spain. The bad news for Fernando Hierro's men is that every time they've faced off against the hosts of a World Cup they've been eliminated. Today they need to make history if they want to continue on their journey to the quarter finals.
The main doubt on the team selection was whether Thiago Alcantara would keep his place or if Koke would return to the XI, just as he did against Portugal. Hierro has made his decision, Koke starts, but he's also made two other unforced chances as Nacho and Asensio replace Carvajal and Iniesta respectively.
Russia are going to use the same system Portugal, Iran and Morocco adopted against Spain. That means a deep block with plenty of men behind the ball, waiting for Spain to commit errors. They'll look to cause damage on the counterattack and test De Gea's confidence after a tough opening three matches in Russia for the Manchester United stopper.
Spain XI vs Russia:
De Gea; Nacho, Ramos, Piqué, Alba; Busquets, Koke, Marco Asensio; Silva, Isco and Costa.
