Olympic Soccer 2012: Predicting Spain's Starting XI vs. Honduras

Spain is looking forward to its next match against Honduras after a shocking beginning. The Iberian nation started its Olympic quest with a stunning defeat to Japan.

Spain has to pick up where it left off and continue in its quest for the gold in the Olympics.

It is not an easy task, given the less-than-stellar performance from Spain. It is hoped that Spain can recover from its defeat.

The following starting XI prediction for the upcoming match against Honduras is not necessarily absolute. An invitation is extended to B/R readers to sit back, relax and enjoy the slideshow.

GK: David de Gea

David de Gea failed once in an attempt to block a goal by Japan's Yuki Otsu. In spite of this setback, de Gea was able to block further attempts by Japan to score.

While my personal preference would have been Iker Casillas in the Olympics, de Gea will continue as goalkeeper in the starting XI for the upcoming match against Honduras.

DF: Jordi Alba

Jordi Alba's performance was less than expected during the match. During 40 minutes of play, Alba received a yellow card for pushing one of the opposing players.

Alba will continue to form part of the starting XI in the hopes that he can regain his form.

DF: Martin Montoya

Martin Montoya had a great start in the 2011-2012 season. Unfortunately, this did not help in the Olympic match between Spain and Japan.

Montoya has to concentrate on his technique of crossing and passing, as published on FCBarcelona.com during the match against Honduras. It will be for this reason Montoya will be included in the starting XI against Honduras.

DF: Cesar Azpilicueta

Cesar Azpilicueta was an unused substitute during the match between Spain and Japan. It was a crime that Azpilicueta did not participate in the match.

His record (according to ESPN Soccernet) consists of one goal, two assists and 16 shots within 30 matches in Ligue 1 of France. Azpilicueta may form part of the match against Honduras in the hope for a victory.

DF: Alberto Botia

Alberto Botia is the case of another unused substitute during the 2012 Summer Olympics. Botias record during the 2011-2012 season (according to ESPN Soccernet) was one goal, one assist and 13 shots, with three shots on goal.

Botia also started 40 matches during the 2011-2012 season. Botia may be used in an attempt to regain points in this crucial Olympic moment.

MF: Isco

Isco may not have had a great day against Japan, but his actions within the 2011-2012 La Liga season may help Spain. 

FIFA classifies Isco as a midfielder while ESPN has him as a forward. Regardless, Isco is ready for the challenge against Honduras and is included in the starting XI.

MF: Oriol Romeu

Oriol Romeu predicted a Spanish comeback in the Olympics according to FIFA. In this case, Romeu will be in the starting XI for his ability to move between the midfield and defense during a match according to ESPN.

MF: Javier Martinez

Javier Martinez attempted to defend Spain in its maiden match against Japan without success. Martinez will remain in the starting XI in order to lend his expertise in the midfield.

ESPN Soccernet praised Martinez for his ability to tackle, attack and tear up opponents' play. Martinez may do the same in the next match against Honduras.

FW: Juan Mata

Mata was able to sustain Spain during the match against Japan (according to The Guardian). Mata was all over the field in an attempt to go on the offensive.

Mata was unable to do much to stop Japan. Regardless, he will be present in the starting XI against Honduras as well.

FW: Adrian Lopez

Adrian Lopez participated in the match against Japan but was not successful. Lopez will be expected to be in the starting XI again along with Juan Mata and Rodrigo as a forward.

FW: Cristian Tello

Cristian Tello did not impress in Spain´s match against Japan. Tello may be part of the starting XI, taking into account his UEFA Champions League experience as well as his youth.