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World Cup 2014: Juan Mata insists Spain shouldn't panic after heavy defeat

Juan Mata of Spain faces the media during a Spain press conference at Centro de Entrenamiendo do Caju in Curitiba
Image: Juan Mata: Facing the media on Monday

Juan Mata insists Spain should not alter their usual style of play, despite being humbled 5-1 by Holland in their World Cup opener.

The shock defeat to the Dutch was the world and European champions' heaviest loss in over 50 years.

Vicente del Bosque's side had more of the ball than their opponents, but lost control of the game in the second half, conceding goals from crosses, on the counter-attack and as the result of individual errors, such as Iker Casillas losing control of the ball to gift Robin van Persie goal number four.

But Mata, who was left on the bench for the entirety of the game, does not think Spain need to re-think their tactics, highlighting that they won two European Championships and the last World Cup by embracing the possession-based game they are now renowned for.

CURITIBA, BRAZIL - JUNE 15: Spain players warm up during a Spain training session at Centro de Entrenamiento do Caju on June 15, 2014 in Curitiba, Brazil.
Image: Spain players training in Curitiba

"We have to keep trusting in this style of play, it has led us to many triumphs and it allows us to control games, so I don't see a reason why we should play another way," Mata told a press conference.

The Manchester United midfielder also praised the spirit among the squad.

"I feel prouder than ever to belong to this group, this generation. We have remained united in the good times but above all during the bad times, and we have always believed in our football," he said.

More from World Cup Group B

"I have to say that since I arrived here this group has felt like a family, I feel like any other player, the relationship between everyone is fundamental to this team."

Mata also warned Spain's detractors that his team were still in the tournament.

We aren't dead yet... we have to keep the same attitude we have had so we can continue in the same way we always have done.
Juan Mata

"We aren't dead yet. Losing was a big blow for everyone, but we have to keep the same attitude we have had so we can continue in the same way we always have done."

Spain are bottom of Group B and must now beat Chile on Wednesday at the Maracana if they are to stand a realistic chance of qualifying for the last 16.

Forward Pedro admitted the pressure was on his side to turn things around.

"We only have one chance left," he said.

"The game with Chile is a final and we must remind ourselves that we cannot fail. Chile are a compact team, a very difficult side. We are going to try and prepare well for the game, because we're not going to have many more opportunities."

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