September 5, 1998 stands as a turning point in the history of the Spanish national team. A setback in Cyprus, 3-2, followed a previous disappointment, and that World Cup campaign in France along with the subsequent mockery toppled the tenure of the Barakaldo coach. Twenty-five years later, Spain returns to the island, and the memory of that moment helps Luis de la Fuente steer the current squad with renewed focus.
De la Fuente: “We will make gains against Cyprus and Georgia”
The facts speak clearly: comparisons reveal a stark difference between the two teams. The 6-0 loss at Los Cármenes speaks for itself, while Spain rose to lead the group, with its only defeat coming against Scotland. Cyprus has endured seven losses in its campaign, piling up a troubling tally of 2 goals scored to 27 conceded. The numbers are compelling in their clarity.
Spain has reasons to feel confident, yet Luis de la Fuente treats each match with the seriousness of a final. The objective is straightforward: stay atop the group and secure a seed for Euro 2024, which will be drawn in Hamburg on December 2.
Spain earned its ticket to Germany with a last win in Norway. The final window of the year could feature a Cinderella story similar to Georgia, who faced Cyprus this Thursday and will play again next Sunday in Valladolid. De la Fuente insists his players should not view these fixtures as mere formalities; the coach has urged them to approach the game as if it were a final, perhaps to generate the necessary fever and motivation.
Avoid clutter
The coach understands the demanding environment surrounding the Spanish team. Any setback carries heavy consequences. Even a win in Cyprus would not erase the risk to reputation; it would risk undermining momentum in UEFA competitions and jeopardize Euro 2024 qualification, which Spain secured ahead of time in the Nations League. De la Fuente plans to field a fully competitive side. It is possible that Ferran Torres and Jose Luis Gayà may be rested, yet both attended training in Limassol this week. The squad selection will aim to balance freshness with proven reliability, given that only 23 players can be registered for the final rounds.
A recognizable eleven
To project seriousness, the lineup may begin with Unai Simón guarding the goal, a trusted operator who rarely makes the first move. David Raya, who has carved out a place at a European giant like Arsenal, could earn a chance in Valladolid. The biggest strategic shift in defense features Iñigo Martínez, who is in fine form, while Grimaldo could make his senior debut on the left to support Gayà. Injured Aymeric Laporte remains unavailable, but Grimaldo offers versatility to cover the flank with thrust and defense in equal measure.
In the core, Rodri anchors the midfield as the principal pivot, with Gavi providing energy and vision. Mikel Merino and Fabián vie for the other interior role, as is often the case. Up front, captain Alvaro Morata is the anchor, with the wings potentially opening for Lamine Yamal or Nico Williams. Oyarzabal also remains in contention to dart into the left channel as necessary.
In the case of Lamine, this would be his third match with the senior team, and just one more appearance could shape a broader role for him in future campaigns. The federation is keen to secure stability in selection, ensuring a strong showing in the upcoming window to prevent any lingering concerns.
Possible alignments
Cyprus: Mall, Andreou, Karo, Gogic, Kyprianou, Iannonu, Spoljanic, Kousoulos, Kyriakov, Christofi, Kostang
Spain: Unai Simón, Carvajal, Le Normand, Iñigo Martínez, Grimaldo, Rodri, Merino, Gavi, Lamine Yamal, Morata, Oyarzabal
Referee: Mykola Balakin (Ukrainian).
Stadium: Limassol Stadium
Kick-off: 18:00