Spain vs. Israel: World Cup 2018 Qualifying Live Stream and Preview
Spain welcome Israel in a UEFA Group G qualifying match for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, as the hosts attempt to maintain their imperious home record at the Estadio El Molinon in Gijon on Friday.
The Spaniards are undefeated on home soil in qualification for the tournament since competing in their first tie in 1934, according toย Phil Kitromilides of Goal.
La Roja lead the group, only ahead of Italy on goal difference (by seven). Israel currently lie third, one point behind the two major nations with nine.
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Here is how you can watch the intriguing qualifier:
Date:ย Friday, March 24
Time:ย 7.45 p.m. GMT/ 3.45 p.m. ET
TV:ย Sky Sports 5, ESPN3
Stream:ย Sky Go,ย ESPN Player
Preview
El Molinon's tight capacity will ensure an intimidating atmosphere for the visitors as they attempt to cause a huge shock on their travels.ย
According toย Gary Stonehouseย ofย The Sun, the former world champions have been training in the capital ahead of the game and welcome AC Milan attackerย Gerard Deulofeu back into the squad after impressing in Italy. The player is currently on loan at the San Siro from Everton and will be hoping to grab the secondย cap of his career.
Israel arrive in Spain determined to attack and will search for the goals to propel them to Russia 2018.
Coach Elisha Levy said he understands the complexity of the task at hand, perย Andrew Sherwoodย ofย Jewish News: "We know we are facing one of the strongest national teams in the world, but we will go to Spain with the goal of playing positive football. We want to threaten Spain's goal and do all we can to get a good result. We don't want to capitulate against any opponent. This is a big test for us, but we will do our best."
Despite inferior opposition, a win is vital for Spain with the Italians close behind. Only the group winners automatically progress, forcing the Spanish not to underestimate the Blue and Whites.
Sergio Ramos has said he will put aside his club rivalry with Gerard Pique aside as the pair anchor the defence on Friday.
According to Ben Nagleย of the MailOnline, the Real Madrid skipper said he is happy to work with the Barcelona man despite their clubs fighting for the La Liga crown.ย Ramos said on Monday:
"The game finishes and you shake hands. It's the way it is between Real Madrid and Barcelona and that will not change. Now, I will give him a hug. We have become accustomed to throwing stones, but we take it without malice and it is always healthy... and that serves as something for you to sell. The key is the unity in the team, and that can not be lost.
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It is unlikely the visitors will hurt Spain's defence, but Israel's position in the group will give them extra motivation.
Three points in Gijon for Levy's team could give them overall control of the group after five matches.
Spain have too much talent to be railroaded by a lesser team across the expanse of a full qualification programme, but if they do not play to the best of their abilities at El Molinon, their precious home record might be ruined by an improving Israel.
