Spain and Real Madrid defender Raul Albiol has admitted that Tuesday's opponents France will be a tough test for La Roja.
Vicente Del Bosque's side defeated Belarus 4-0 on Friday, but the 27-year-old is of the opinion that Les Bleus' will pose a stronger test as the two highest ranked sides in Group I fight it out at Vicente Calderon.
“France have changed a lot of players under their new Coach [Didier Deschamps],” he told rfef.es. “There are some more physical players, but the match will be the same as it is always is against them.
“Playing at home is an important factor, and hopefully that helps us get the three points. The important thing is to get the win, because that would be a major step towards qualifying for the World Cup in Brazil.
“We must be prepared to face the very best of France, despite their Friendly loss [to Japan on Friday].”
The former Valencia man also commented on his own position in the national team, having come on as a substitute in Friday's convincing win in Minsk, as well as remarking on goalkeepr Iker Casillas and clubmate Karim Benzema, whom he will face in midweek.
“It is a vote of confidence from the coach [that he brought me on]. I need to show over the next couple of days that I am fit and in good shape.
“Iker wants to keep proving he is the best goalkeeper in the world. He is focused on his work, ambitious and always wants to do more.
“Karim will really want to play,” he added. “We all know what a great player he is, and on Wednesday we will joke about the result with one another. Our friendship as teammates will remain.”
