Spain midfielder Sergio Busquets expects a heavy case of the butterflies before his World Cup debut on Wednesday.
Busquets is expected to start the Group H opener against Switzerland on Wednesday.
"Until now, I've only seen games on TV, but I guess it'll be just like any other important game," Busquets said Tuesday at the Moses Mabhida Stadium. "The bus ride from the hotel to the stadium, for sure I'm going to feel butterflies in my stomach."
Spain has won all 13 games since the defensive midfielder made his debut in a 2-1 qualifying win at Turkey in April 2009.
The 21-year-old has easily integrated into the national side alongside seven Barcelona teammates, which include Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta. Since being promoted by coach Pep Guardiola to start the 2008-09 season, Busquets has helped the Catalan club win seven trophies.
Busquets is expected to fill the role of Marcos Senna, a key member of Spain's European Championship winning team in 2008. Senna was troubled by injuries this season.
"I bring something different from Marcos Senna, but the most important thing is that I complement the team," Busquets said. "I feel just like another one of the 23 in the team."
While Busquets prepares for his debut, goalkeeper Iker Casillas' 105th appearance will move him closer to Andoni Zubizarreta's record 126 caps for Spain. It will be the Spain captain's third straight World Cup.
"Being named captain was an important step professionally and personally," the Real Madrid player said. "As captain it's my first World Cup and I'm happy and proud of representing a team filled with such great players and people."
Spain also plays Honduras and Chile in Group H.
