Spain v Netherlands team news: Chelsea target Diego Costa starts upfront for World Cup holders

 

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In: Del Bosque names Diego Costa in startling line-up
GETTY
Charlie Eccleshare13 June 2014

Chelsea target Diego Costa has recovered from injury to start for Spain tonight against the Netherlands, where he will line up with current Blues defender Cesar Azpilicueta.

As ever, the Spain side is dominated by Real Madrid and Barcelona, with the only other player from outside the two is Manchester City’s David Silva.

The Dutch attack will be spearheaded by Manchester United’s Robin van Persie who will be desperate to put a disappointing club season behind him. The former Arsenal striker will be supported by ex-Chelsea winger Arjen Robben and Galatasaray schemer Wesley Sneijder.

Swansea’s Jonathan de Guzman and Aston Villa’s Ron Vlaar also start for the Oranje, whose midfield will be anchored by former Manchester City midfielder Nigel de Jong.

The fixture is a repeat of the 2010 World Cup final and bad blood remains after De Jong’s horror kick into Xabi Alonso’s chest that night and the Dutch team’s robust display which saw John Heitinga sent off.

Spain starting XI: Casillas; Azpilicueta, Ramos, Pique, Alba; Xavi, Xabi Alonso, Busquets; Silva, Iniesta, Diego Costa

Netherlands starting XI: Cillessen; Janmaat, Vlaar, de Vrij, Martins, Blind; De Jong, de Guzmán, Sneijder; Robben, Van Persie

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