Qatar 2022 Spain lost deliberately to Japan to avoid playing Brazil – Hugo Sanchez. Hugo Sanchez, a Mexican football great, claims Spain lost to Japan on purpose to keep Brazil out of the quarterfinals.
ESPN questioned Sanchez, saying, “You’re telling me Spain looked for this outcome to avoid Brazil?”
And he said, “I promise. Although I wasn’t present and am not in Luis Enrique’s head, he had considered the best strategy for avoiding Brazil in the quarterfinals.
There is a risk, but it is one that is worthwhile taking. They respect Brazil, not because they are afraid of them.
In their last group game on Thursday against Japan, Spain came up short 2-1.
The Round of 16 matchup is now between them and Morocco.
If Spain defeats the North Africans, they will likely play Portugal in the quarterfinals, avoiding a potential matchup with Brazil.
