Spain have unhappy memories of recent games against host nations at major competitions, following controversial defeats by England at Euro 96 and South Korea at the 2002 World Cup. The players say they have no concerns about the referee this time, despite the best efforts of the Spanish Sports media to whip up controversy. ‘‘The referee is experienced and is not going to be influenced by Spain or Portugal,’’ winger Vicente said. Interestingly, Sweden’s Anders Frisk will referee the game having taken charge of their World Cup 2002 match against the Republic of Ireland, whom he awarded a penalty to force the Spaniards to endure a penalty shoot-out which they ultimately won.
