World Cup 2018: Ahead of crucial Round of 16 clash vs Russia, David Silva says Spain’s playing style is untouchable

Spain midfielder David Silva on Saturday said he was brushing aside criticism of his team's lackluster start to the 2018 FIFA World Cup, while at the same time he defended La Roja's playing philosophy.

At a press conference on the eve of Spain's round-of-16 clash with Russia, the Manchester City player said he was used to criticism, but that these critiques should not alter Spain's playing style, which relies heavily on ball possession and has led Spain to a number of successes.

Silva added that his team was trying their best to improve, but said sometimes criticism can become excessive.

The former Valencia player said blame directed at both him and Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta was beyond their control, adding that their only response would be giving their best on field.

Heading into Sunday's game, Spain has only earned two draws and a single victory in Group B, but did manage to win their group ahead of Portugal.

Although Spain have not been convincing this World Cup, Russia cannot ignore the fact that the Spaniards have not lost a match since Euro 2016. Contradicting to that, Spain have also never beaten the host team in a World Cup match.

Meanwhile, Spain have never beaten a host country at the World Cup or European Championship.

But their new coach, Fernando Hierro, has suggested that “records are there to be broken.”

“Records are there to be broken. We have everything very clearly in mind. Why are we looking in the rear view mirror? Why are we looking at the past? It's all about tomorrow. Everything else is completely irrelevant,” La Roja coach said in a press conference.

Among Spain's most recent losses to hosts in major tournaments was a defeat to South Korea at the 2002 World Cup and a loss to Portugal at the 2004 European Championship

On the other hand, Russia’s coach Stanislav Cherchesov has claimed that they know how to break into Spain’s defensive woes ahead of the Round of 16 clash on Sunday.

“We see what kind of details we can include to be victorious. I believe if we look at the stats Spain has the ball most of the time, more than their opponents. We have felt this when we played against Spain.

We know we have to look for our own chances and we should work out our own strategy. We hope it works out tomorrow. We know what kind of football Spain can play. How you can play against them is a different question,” Cherchesov added.

(With efeservicios inputs)