(Football news) The World Cup is in full flow and the games are coming in hard and fast. After the Group Stage draw, Group E was considered one of the toughest groups and rightly so. Germany and Japan will play the first match while Spain and Costa Rica will play the next one. Spain have had two very disappointing World Cups after winning in 2010. The team is however under Luis Enrique which was seen at the Euros where Spain were beaten in the semi-finals by eventual champions Italy after a penalty situation. Costa Rica reached the quarter finals in 2014 but were eliminated in the group stage in 2018. This time around they will be looking to repeat their 2014 heroics.

Luis Enrique has made quite a few controversial decisions in the selection. Jose Gaya was ruled out of the tournament a few days ago and was replaced by Alex Balde. Spain have been playing well for the past year or so and they will fancy their chances. Costa Rica had to beat New Zealand in the inter-confederation play-offs. Spain are heavy favorites to win the contest but anything can happen at the World Cup. Costa Rica have the ability to shock Spain but they will have to play out of their skin.

Spain's training has been interrupted by a few fitness and health issues but everyone is available for the opening game. Barcelona duo Pedri and Gavi will have the responsibility of running the midfield. None of Spain's attackers are in good form which is a massive issue for them. Alvaro Morata has always done well for Spain under Enrique and a lot will be expected of him. Enrique will be hoping that his decision of not selecting Sergio Ramos doesn't backfire as defense is Spain's weakest section.

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