7M Sport
You are here: World Cup 2014 >

Varane: Spain is not in decline

Wednesday, March 27, 2013 by YAHOO Sport

France defender Raphael Varane does not believe Tuesday's opponent Spain is a team in decline, despite recording back-to-back World Cup qualifying draws.

Vicente del Bosque's side were forced into a share of the spoils at home by both les Bleus and Finland, and find themselves second in Group I with four games left to play.

But Varane, who plays for Real Madrid at club level, is certain that la Roja will pose a stern threat at the Stade de France on Tuesday.

"I don't think Spain are a team in decline. I think this team are still very eager and motivated," he told UEFA.com. "I know some of the players and they are still hungry. They are not ready to surrender games."

Deschamps was also wary of what Del Bosque's side can produce and will not be taking them lightly despite their dip in form.

"We know them, and we know what they are capable of. When they have the ball, they attack well," he said at a press conference. "They know how to do it. Then they are less powerful when they have to defend."

Headlines
 England & Germany legends pay tribute to Gerrard & Lahm

Legends pay tribute to Gerrard & Lahm

International retirements follow Wo...
  • Standings
  • Top Scorers
    • A
    • B
    • C
    • D
    • E
    • F
    • G
    • H
  • Rank Player Country Goals(pen)
Cities & Stadiums
Top 3 of Previous FIFA World Cups
  • Year
  • Winner
  • Runner-up
  • Third place