After the shock of their debut against India at the Birsa Munda International Hockey Stadium in Rourkela, before 25,000 spectators, the men’s team has a revalidation this Sunday at 12:30 (Spanish time, Teledeporte) against Wales. They are the most affordable rival in the group, who already lost the first game 5-0 against England and should not be a setback for the Spanish team, which if they win would secure their place in the round of 16, the minimum objective taking into account that 80% of the National Team debuts in a World Cup.
There is a recent precedent between both sets. Last December, in Cádiz, the RedSticks won 6-1, a resounding result. The Caldas team recognizes that the debut against India has not meant a downturn due to the defeat, since the setting and the entity of the rival could lead to something like this: “It was a spectacular game because of what you could breathe, because of the atmosphere, the lights, the stands… And for many of the team it was the first time”. This was expressed by Marc Miralles, one of the team’s captains, who highlighted the youth of the group.
“As for the match, we started well, but they gained ground on us, they scored two goals and had many chances. We could have played very well and lost 2-0. It was a good experience for everyone. The best thing is that on Sunday we have another opportunity”, said the Polo Club player, one of the specialists in the penalty-corner, one of the game situations in which Spain must improve for this Sunday against Wales and in the rest of the championship. “The important thing against Wales will be the penalty-corner and defensive solidity”, summed up Jordi Bonastre.
If Miralles summed up the defeat and the emotions of the debut, Bonastre already focused on the next match against Wales. “The team faces the challenge with great enthusiasm. We know the importance of this meeting, and we will give it our all. The key will be in the performance in the areas”he added. Spain will have an eye on the other group match. England and India tie with a win. The RedSticks will face the British team next Thursday.