Spain are pass masters no more

For the past six years Spain have been virtually untouchable. Their football philosophy saw them dominate sides thanks to a mixture of exceptional ball retention, incisive passing, plenty of patience and a desire to win the ball back as soon as it was lost. Against the Netherlands, virtually none of these traits were on display. Too many players were sloppy with their passes, while their seemed a lack of urgency to press when the Dutch defenders were in possession. Andres Iniesta showed glimpses with some probing passes but it was all too slow and predictable. Changes must be made.

Tactical master Van Gaal comes out on top

While Vicente del Bosque refuses to change his system – which few could argue with considering Spain’s success – Louis van Gaal has not been afraid to stamp his mark on his current squad. He was blasted back in his homeland for employing five in defence, but this system was fluid and it quickly became clear the full-backs would spend most of their time in advanced positions. The new Manchester United boss also gave Arjen Robben, Wesley Sneijder and Robin van Persie plenty of freedom. They smoothly switched positions and exposed a Spanish defence that simply could not cope with the movement, and pace.

Fluid front three prove dangerous
The Netherlands possess a front three that would strike fear into any defence. They may all now be in the latter stages of their successful careers but against Spain they proved that they will be a handful for any defence. In Van Persie they possess a natural and clinical finisher, while Sneijder still possesses the ability to unlock any back line. But their real trump card was Robben. The Bayern forward used his power and pace to obliterate the Spaniards and this could well be his tournament.

Spain’s defensive frailties clear for all to see
The entire back five had a game to forget. Iker Casillas was to blame for at least three of the goals; Cesar Azpilicueta and Jordi Alba were often caught too high up the field, while Gerard Pique and Sergio Ramos were run ragged by the Dutch front three. Bar bringing in David de Gea, you wonder what changes can instill a more solid look at the back. Previously their ball retention meant the defenders were rarely pressured but now it seems they will be exposed.

Spain’s character under question
Once Spain fell behind, it was clear to see how the players visibly shrank away from the challenge. There are few combative characters in the line-up and it showed. Once the Netherlands were on top they piled on the misery and it could have been more than simply five. How they react against Chile will be key as this is another side that plays with pace in attack. Should Spain lose then their World Cup dream could be left in tatters.