Reigning world and European champions Spain face Tahiti, whose 23-man squad includes just one professional player in Marama Vahirua, on Matchday 2 in Group B of the FIFA Confederations Cup Brazil 2013. FIFA.com previews this encounter between two sides at opposite ends of the football ladder, with the game to be played at the legendary Maracana.

- The game

Spain-Tahiti, Estadio do Maracana, Rio de Janeiro, Thursday 20 June, 16:00 local time, 20:00 BST.

- The stakes

Spain impressed with a dominant 2-1 victory over Uruguay in their Brazil 2013 opener, which eases the pressure slightly ahead of their second group game. And with one eye on the rest of the tournament, coach Vicente Del Bosque may choose to make some changes in his starting XI.

But with the new players his side will be far from weakened. La Roja will no doubt be in the mood for goals, and will be looking to beat the 8-0 scoreline their youth side managed against Tahiti at the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2009.

Anything is possible in football, but even the most optimistic Tahitians know that the challenge facing their team is immense. “We know we're not going to cause any upsets against Spain. But the goal we scored against Nigeria has really given us a boost”, said Nicolas Vallar, who is no doubt dreaming of doubling Tahiti’s goal tally against La Roja. The Toa Aito’s courage was eventually rewarded in their opening game against the Super Eagles, and they will be hoping for another gutsy performance in their second outing.

- The stat

80 – Spain recorded their biggest ever win 80 years ago, with a 13-0 friendly victory over Bulgaria. The FIFA World Cup holders will no doubt have that record in mind when they face Tahiti, and will fancy their chances of eclipsing the existing record.


- Match preview by fifa.com