Criticism from a former coach and complaints from a star player have come ringing in following Spain's upset loss in its Group H opener, but La Furia Roja hope to quickly quiet things down with a victory over Honduras.
Spain may need at least a draw in Monday's match to avoid the shocking elimination of one of the pre-tournament favorites, but the 2008 European champion will have its sights set on taking three points and a big step toward the knockout stage.
The star-studded Spanish couldn't muster a goal against underdog Switzerland on Wednesday, dominating possession but losing 1-0 after Gelson Fernandes' 52nd-minute strike.
That left Spain three points behind both Switzerland and Chile in Group H. Even if the Spanish advance to the knockout stage, finishing second in their group could leave them facing five-time champion Brazil in the round of 16.
"We need to qualify, and there's no margin for error," defender Gerard Pique said. "People know that. We're sure we're capable of doing it."
The loss has sparked questions about the tactics and personnel used by Spain coach Vicente del Bosque, who has vowed to make changes.
Luis Aragones, who coached Spain to its European title two years ago, did not hesitate to question Del Bosque's choice to start defensive-minded midfielders Xabi Alonso and Sergio Busquets together while leaving Cesc Fabregas on the bench.
Fabregas, the Arsenal standout, told the Spanish newspaper Marca that he's "not getting the minutes I would like," and Pique also would like to see his teammate back in the lineup.
"(He brings) a lot of touch, the ability to get into the area and goals," Pique said of Fabregas. "If the coach opts for him, he'll help us very much."
Coming off knee surgery, Liverpool striker Fernando Torres entered as a substitute in the 61st minute Wednesday, but he may start against Honduras.
"Fernando brings so much potency with his speed, how he finishes off in front of goal and the calmness he brings us up front," Alonso said. "I think his knee problems are in the past."
Honduras figures to use a similar strategy to the Swiss, focusing on defense and counterattacks. Los Catrachos also are in desperate need of a win after struggling to generate scoring chances in Wednesday's 1-0 loss to Chile.
"We've got to come together quickly for the next game," defender Sergio Mendoza said. "Our mentality is strong. There are two games left, difficult opponents but not impossible."
Injuries have presented problems for Honduras, which played without midfielder Julio Cesar de Leon and striker David Suazo. De Leon has been ruled out for the tournament, but Suazo could return.
If this match has a winner, the loser's chances of reaching the knockout stage would be gone in the case of a draw between Chile and Switzerland.
These nations have met once in the World Cup, with Honduras earning a 1-1 draw against host Spain in 1982.
