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Spain Playmaker Xavi: Liechtenstein Match Will Not Be Easy
Xavi states that Spain must show respect for international opposition, ahead of their match versus Liechtenstein.
Sep 2, 2010 3:49:00 PM
By Paul Macdonald
Spanish star Xavi is adamant that their opening Group I encounter with Liechtenstein on Friday night will not be as straightforward as many are suggesting.
The world champions face the minnows with odds of 1/66 that La Furia Roja will emerge triumphant, and kick off the defence of their European crown with three points.
However, speaking today at the national side’s training camp on the border of Switzerland, the Barcelona orchestrator is taking nothing for granted.
He said: “There will be no easy ride versus Liechtenstein. Today, everything is equal. We know that in theory they are an inferior opponent and that we are favourites, but it will not be a walkover.
“Spain have always respected every opponent and strived to do our best.”
Xavi’s instrumental role in Spain’s World Cup success over the Netherlands has led to him emerging as one of the front runners for the Ballon d’Or, but the player himself believes there is only one person deserving of the award.
“I would give it to [Lionel] Messi, the others are all behind him,” he stated.
| Bet: | Returns: | Spain £14.00 | Draw £40.00 | Serbia £75.00 |
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| Bet: | Returns: | Spain £13.60 | Draw £40.00 | Serbia £70.00 |
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| Bet: | Returns: | Spain £13.64 | Draw £45.00 | Serbia £80.00 |
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| Bet: | Returns: | Spain £14.00 | Draw £45.00 | Serbia £80.00 |
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| Bet: | Returns: | Spain £14.40 | Draw £39.00 | Serbia £66.00 |
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The world champions face the minnows with odds of 1/66 that La Furia Roja will emerge triumphant, and kick off the defence of their European crown with three points.
However, speaking today at the national side’s training camp on the border of Switzerland, the Barcelona orchestrator is taking nothing for granted.
He said: “There will be no easy ride versus Liechtenstein. Today, everything is equal. We know that in theory they are an inferior opponent and that we are favourites, but it will not be a walkover.
“Spain have always respected every opponent and strived to do our best.”
Xavi’s instrumental role in Spain’s World Cup success over the Netherlands has led to him emerging as one of the front runners for the Ballon d’Or, but the player himself believes there is only one person deserving of the award.
“I would give it to [Lionel] Messi, the others are all behind him,” he stated.
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