Xavi Hernandez is expecting Finland to be defensive and look to counter-attacks and set-pieces to hurt Spain this Friday.
La Roja are in Helsinki now ahead of tomorrow’s World Cup qualifier against a side that recorded a 1-1 draw in Group I’s reverse fixture in Gijon last March.
For the team’s senior midfielder, the test he expects will hold a similar pattern of play to that draw.
“We will be given the ball, they will counter-attack and try to create chances from set-pieces,” considered Xavi to reporters today.
“We will have to watch carefully for these situations and try to move the ball around and be more effective in front of goal than we were in Gijon.
“The important thing is to open the field up wide, that will be key to tomorrow’s game.
“Last time we had a tough game. We will try to do better but it is clearly going to be very difficult again.
“Will Victor Valdes play ahead of Iker Casillas? Valdes is an example on and off the field.
“He has waited for his chance to come into the team and I do not know if he will play tomorrow, but he will certainly be ready.
“All three goalkeepers are training well and it is up to the Coach to decide, but in any case, the goal is safe.”
