India take on Spain in must-win encounter

New Delhi:

India started their proceedings against third-ranked Spain in a must-win tie. The hosts are in the do-or-die sort of situation because they were battered by title favourites Australia 5-2 in their previous encounter.

India, ranked 12th, had sent out a strong message in their first match against arch-rivals Pakistan, as they emerged victorious by 4-1, inviting praise from all around.

However, both India and Spain have lost a game each, but Spain are ahead of the hosts on goal difference. Therefore, Rajpal Singh and his men will have to go all guns blazing to demolish the Spanish armada if they fancy a place in the semi-finals of the tournament.

Spain and India have played each other four times in World Cup competitions with each side winning twice. Their last WC encounter came in 2002 when India beat Spain 3-0. Spain's last win over India in a World Cup came 24 year ago in 1986 (2-1).

Both India and Spain are coming off defeats, which is why this match is very crucial for both the sides.

The records, definitely, would be playing on the minds of both the teams, with India getting a boost of confidence but what ultimately would matter will be the end result.