Spain vs Turkey Preview and Prediction Euro 2016

Turkey go into this Group D game vs. defending champions Spain needing a win to get back on track, while Vicente del Bosque's team can seal a last-16 spot with a win. Eren Sarigul (Turkey) and Eduardo Alvarez (Spain) preview the game.

What's at stake here?

Eren Sarigul: Turkey's air of optimism going into the tournament vanished following their disappointing 1-0 defeat at the hands of Croatia in their opening game. The Crescent & Stars were woeful and know another defeat at the hands of the holders Spain could see jeopardize their

hopes of advancing. Fatih Terim has a couple of major decisions to make regarding his starting lineup following poor performances from the likes of Arda Turan and Hakan Calhanoglu. The experienced manager also has a decision to make up front: whether to start Burak Yilmaz or stick with Cenk Tosun, who failed to register a single shot in his side's opening game.

Eduardo Alvarez: After a hard-fought, but convincing 1-0 win over the Czech Republic in their opening match, Spain will qualify for the knockout stages if they defeat Turkey. Their solid opening performance has allowed the squad to enjoy a much needed few days of calmness after a convoluted weekend, especially in the case of David De Gea.

A victory on Friday would allow Del Bosque to give a couple of fresh faces some playing time in the last group match against Croatia if required. However, a defeat would awaken the ghosts of the 2014 World Cup. The Spaniards should build on the momentum from their debut and keep riding Andres Iniesta's fantastic form.

Key battle

ES: Caner Erkin vs. David Silva

Caner Erkin's duel with David Silva could prove to be one of the defining battles ofTurkey's clash with Spain. Turkey struggled to deal with Croatia's right wing and Spain may focus their attacks down the same flank. Caner will be up against one of Europe's best attacking midfielders in Silva and his ability to deal with the threat posed by the Manchester City star will be one of the game's key battles.

EA: Sergio Busquets vs Arda Turan

As Eren points out, this is a do-or-die match for Turkey, so one would expect them to venture forward. Turan's disappointing first match provoked a chain of negative reactions in Turkey, so the Barcelona playmaker will be motivated to perform on Friday. His problem goes by the name of Sergio Busquets, who looked imperial again in his defensive midfield role last Monday. The Catalan, who recently renewed his contract with Barcelona, knows his club teammate well and should be able to marshal him. If Busquets wins this battle, Spain will dominate possession and the game, but Turan only needs a second to wreak havoc.

Star player

ES: Arda Turan

Arda Turan failed to live up to expectations in Turkey's opening game against Croatia and was taken off after just 60 minutes by Terim. The 29-year-old apologised to fans following Sunday's performance and will be motivated to make amends against Spain. Turkey will look to hit La Roja on the break and Turan will be tasked with picking the right passes and leading the attacking moves.

EA: Alvaro Morata

After a disappointing debut against the Czechs, the young striker will have spent three long days thinking of the handful of chances which he could have done better with. The pressure of the first match is now gone and, with similar service from the outstanding Spanish midfield, Morata should find the net. With plenty of elite clubs interested in acquiring his services next season, Euro 16 has become the perfect window for Morata to showcase his skills. Scoring against Turkey would increase his price tag and potentially increase the number of suitors.

Prediction:

ES: 1-1. Turkey will be eager to show a reaction following their disappointing defeat at the hands of Croatia and could hold Spain to a draw.

EA: 1-0. It looks challenging for Turkey to score, while Spain should finally find Morata in a position where he won't be able to miss.