Spain beat Slovenia and break jinx

Spain made a winning start to a World Cup campaign for the first time in 52 years.
Spain - Solid & Sure - Images from the match

Spain has players who play with artistry and tact. The Spanish Primera Liga is the most exciting soccer league in the world. Yet Spain under performs.

If history does not inspire, the squad's form does not enthuse either. Surprising, given the fact that the nucleus is the magical Real Madrid side.

Upfront, Raul is a gem with his prolific scoring. He is ably assisted by Morientes, Luis Enrique and Tristan. In midfield, Helguerra and Mendieta have the vision to create openings and execute goals. Hierro and Salgado are ageing defenders, but are hardworking and lend solidity to attack.

Going by star value, Spain can be the surprise packet at Korea, Japan. All of Spain will be hoping that the side throws up pleasant surprises, not disappointing results.

Defenders:
Curro Torres, Fernando Hierro, Miguel Angel Nadal, Carles Puyol, Juanfran Garcia, Enrique Romero.

Midfielders:
David Albelda, Ruben Baraja, Ivan Helguera, Luis Enrique Martinez, Gaizka Mendieta, Sergio Gonzalez, Juan Carlos Valeron, Xavi Hernandez.

Forwards:
Francisco De Pedro, Alberto Luque, Fernando Morientes, Raul Gonzalez, Joaquin Sanchez, Diego Tristan.

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Qualifying campaign

W 2-1 Bosnia-H (a) W 2-0 Israel (h) D 1-1 Austria (a) W 5-0 Liechtenstein (h) W 4-1 Bosnia-H (h) D 1-1 Israel (a) W 4-0 Austria (h) W 2-0 Liechtenstein (a)

June 21, 2002