Another example of 23 players forming one unit or playing as one was the Azzurri squad of WC2006 when the Italians triumphed without having one great star- they counted on Coach Lippi, on the magnificent Buffon, on leadership of Cannavaro, skills and passing of Pirlo, commanding presence and runs of Zambrotta, and Grosso’s rise to the big occasion in certain games as well as the ability to be decisive in front of goal.

As for this Spain team, I must say Xavi remains one of the best if not the best midfielder in the world and I expect Spain to beat Paraguay but I feel the adventure will end in the semi-final because the main goal threat is Villa and he can be marked out of the game. The problem is Torres not being 100% and he is struggling for form and confidence. Let’s see if he’s benched the next game.