David Silva has urged Spain to treat Russia ‘like they’re Brazil’ when the two nations collide in the World Cup last 16 on Sunday.
Spain have come in for criticism ahead of the game, with their performances in the group stage deemed underwhelming by many, prompting Silva to demand ‘very quick’ passing and movement from his teammates in Moscow.
“I’m used to criticism, I’ve been here for many years and I prefer to dedicate myself to playing football,” the Manchester City midfielder said at a Press conference.
“The criticism often hasn’t been deserved, although we must correct the errors we’ve made.
“We had good games in the first two matches, but we’ve already seen that all the teams are complicated to face at this World Cup.
“We’ve been pit against Russia, who are going to be very complicated, so we have to play against them like they’re Brazil.
“What’s led us to success has been the ball. All our opponents sit back against us, so we have to play very quickly, allowing those up top to have many more options.”
