Official: Marco Asensio, Marcos Llorente start for Spain vs Morocco in WC round of 16 | OneFootball

Spain did not quite cruise through the World Cup group stages like they would have wanted to, and largely depended on Germany beating Costa Rica before their place in the round of 16 was confirmed on the final matchday.

Finishing second in the group did sort of push La Roja on the easier side of the bracket, with the first opponent coming in the form of Morocco. Luis Enrique has made five changes to the starting lineup that lost to Japan.

While four of these changes are largely a return of normal team dynamics, there is one surprising switch — at right-back. Neither Cesar Azpilicueta nor Dani Carvajal get to start this game, with Marcos Llorente sliding in over them.

Aymeric Laporta, Rodri, and Jordi Alba complete the back-four, guarding Unai Simon in goal.

The midfield is unchanged, with Sergio Busquets partnered alongside teenage duo Pedri and Gavi. The trio have started every single game this World Cup.

Nico Williams returns to the bench in favour of Ferran Torres, while Marco Asensio replaces Alvaro Morata as the striker. Dani Olmo retains his place as the left-winger.