Israel vs Spain - Spain look to complete qualifying campaign unbeaten

Posted Sunday, October 08, 2017 by PA

Spain boss Julen Lopetegui hailed the attitude of his players before their final World Cup qualifier against Israel.

The build-up to Friday's 3-0 win over Albania, which clinched qualification for next year's tournament in Russia with a game to spare, was overshadowed by the political turmoil in Spain.

Nevertheless, goals from Rodrigo, Isco and Thiago secured a comfortable victory for Lopetegui's men, who will now look to complete their group campaign unbeaten in Jerusalem on Monday.

"Many things have happened but we've taken it day by day, focusing on the best interests of the team," Lopetegui told a press conference.

"I've been lucky to have players that have shown so much commitment and their impeccable attitude has helped a lot.

"We are delighted and proud of what we have achieved because it's very important for Spain."

Thiago will miss the trip after suffering an ankle injury against Albania, while David Silva and Gerard Pique picked up their second bookings of the campaign and are suspended,

Spain are unbeaten in World Cup qualifying since losing to Denmark in March 1993, an impressive 62 games without defeat.

En route to Russia they have scored 35 goals in nine games, conceding just three.

Israel's faint hopes of qualifying from a tough group were ended by defeats at home to Albania and away in Italy.

But they did get back to winning ways on Friday with a 1-0 victory over Group G whipping boys Liechtenstein.

The match against Spain looks like being boss Elisha Levy's last in charge, with reports suggesting his tenure is about come to an end following a disappointing campaign.