The 32: Spain superfan fears Los Riojas 'may go out in the group stages'

Sergio Ramos and Spain’s new boss Fernando Heirro may have exuded confidence ahead of their clash with Portugal, but that is not shared by all supporters.

The build-up to the World Cup has been dominated by the extraordinary sacking of Julen Lopetegui after he was named Real Madrid’s next manager, just two days before the 2010 champions start their campaign in Russia.

Spanish superfan Juanjo Andres Cuervo, representing Los Riojas on Yahoo’s daily World Cup show, The 32, is worried that a poor result against neighbours Portugal today could see them exit at the group stage.

And it is Lopetegui’s departure that has changed his mind.

“Before last week I thought Spain would win the World Cup – I think we have the best squad,” he told The 32.

“Now Lopetegui has left I think it’s going to be really hard to manage the team. Also as a manager tactically he was implementing some new ideas.

“He’s being given confidence to young players such as Isco, Thiago and Koke, the players who are replacing Xavi and Xabi Alonso.

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“If we lose today I think we may go out in the first round. It will be a huge surprise, but we’ll have to see.

“If we win it’ll be good for everyone and the expectations will raise again. Today is so important for Spain.”