Talking Tactics: Spain out to shake off Japan pain

Spain may still be reeling after their shock 4-0 defeat against Japan but they must move on quickly as the World Cup enters the knockout phase.

La Roja enjoyed a superb start to their campaign Down Under, racking up big wins over Costa Rica and Zambia in their first two games to secure a place in the last 16. 

However, their humbling loss in their final group game cost them top spot.

With Switzerland next up, Spain must steady themselves and bounce back if they are to reach the quarter-finals for the first time in their history.

Strong start

Spain could hardly have enjoyed a stronger start to this summer's tournament. 

They hit eight goals without reply across their first two matches, booking their place in the knockout stages with a game to spare. 

However, the mood has shifted considerably given the manner of their defeat to Japan and manager Jorge Vilda must now conduct an inquest in order to avoid a repeat in the last 16.

Confident of a reaction

Vilda insisted that his team are still yet to show their best and believes the players will channel their frustration into a strong performance against the Swiss. 

He said: "We have not seen the best Spanish team yet and I am convinced that against Switzerland, the team will react. 

"No one should lose hope. This defeat hurts, the players are angry and I am convinced they will be much better in the next match."

Safe and sideways

The Spain manager revealed his frustration at the fact that his side were largely passive in possession but remained optimistic that they would not repeat that mistake in their crucial next outing. 

He said: "We passed the ball many times but horizontally and that was not what we were looking for. 

"What we always look for is to reach the opponent's goal. Today we were not able to achieve this and we hope in the next game, the same thing won't happen."

Possession without purpose

Vilda's criticisms are supported by the numbers. 

Spain recorded more than 75% possession in each of their three group games but the difference in shot count both for and against is stark. 

In their first two matches — a 3-0 win over Costa Rica and a 5-0 win over Zambia — La Roja racked up a combined 66 shots and 25 on target while facing just 11 and two on target in reply. 

When facing Japan, however, Vilda’s side managed just 10 efforts, hitting the target only twice, while their opponents gave them a masterclass in ruthlessness. 

The Japanese scored with four of their five accurate strikes and missed the goal just twice.

Stubborn Switzerland

Spain’s opponents in the round of 16 are Switzerland, who have epitomised defensive solidity at the World Cup so far. 

They have yet to concede a goal at the tournament and ground out back-to-back goalless draws against Norway and New Zealand in order to secure top spot in Group A. 

If Spain cannot rediscover their cutting edge, they may find themselves on the end of another frustrating result.