• Chronicle: Russia sweeps Spain in a final test before the World Cup to forget
  • Opinion: Spain, between hope and realism

Spain does not usually start off on the right foot. Rather the complete opposite. There are the precedents, the sweat, the in extremis classifications and even the controversies for alleged biscottos that will pave the way back. It is almost a tradition, although in the World Cup that starts today the norm cannot be met. By logic and obligation.

Because the tournament, expanded for the first time to 32 selections , lost strength and gained exoticism. And the first group, the C, which faces the selection is not to have many scares. To win comfortably and expand the preparation.

Today (14.30, Four), for example, Tunisia appears, a team that Spain defeated in the six official precedents, which returns to the World Cup nine years later and occupies the 51st position in the FIBA ​​ranking . And that counts as a great reference with the giant Salah Mejri (2.17 m.) , Former Madrid and Dallas Mavericks, where he extended experiences with Doncic . Also with the nationalized Michael Roll (Armani).

"We know that the rivals of the first phase are not of the highest level , but we cannot have any lack of confidence," said Marc Gasol, who is expected to return after the gastroenteritis left by KO at the beginning of the week.

Then, on Monday, Puerto Rico arrives, which a priori seems the toughest opponent. A team with tradition, capable of defeating the USA (Athens Games) and Spain in a World Cup (2002) . In fact, of the previous 14, seven went to the Puerto Ricans . Although his present is not so threatening. Without JJ Barea, who broke the Achilles tendon , schoolboy Gian Clavell is one of his figures. Also veteran Renaldo Balkman. Another proper name to follow is that of Isaiah Pineiro , who will play in the NBA Kings.

And finally, on Wednesday, Iran . With another giant, Hamed Haddadi (2.18) , as the most recognizable player. He already faced Spain in the last World Cup, with beating (90-60).

Without danger, but without possibility of dismissal. Because the results are dragged to the next step, the truly key . There Spain will see them except surprise with Serbia and Italy . To advance to the quarter you must win at least one of those two, and yes, fearsome rivals.

According to the criteria of The Trust Project

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