Puerto Rico to face European/World Champions La Roja

Looks like La Roja is at it again.  The European and World champions have traveled the world, their latest journey bringing them to the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico, where they will be looking to continue their celebrations.

While Vicente del Bosque's men are the first ever in history to win three consecutive titles, to underestimate their rivals would be a grave mistake, even if said nation is ranked 138^th in the world.

This match is arguably one of the largest in the history of Puerto Rican football.  A lot is at stake, the pressure to win considerably high, as the Caribbean nation will play host to the best team in the entire world.

Spain's Olympic trio – Javi Martinez, Juan Mata, and Jordi Alba – has been excused from tomorrow's match.  Also missing the cut are veterans, such as FC Barcelona's Carles Puyol, Xavi Hernandez, and David Villa.

In spite of being without the service of these men, Spain's side remains relatively strong, with the likes San Iker, David Silva, and Andres Iniesta. 

VdB's lineup for the friendly looks as follows:

GKs: Iker Casillas, Pepe Reina, Víctor Valdés

Defenders: Álvaro Arbeloa, Sergio Ramos, Raúl Albiol, Gerard Piqué, Nacho Monreal, Juanfran Torres

Midfielders: Xabi Alonso, Sergio Busquets, Santi Cazorla, Cesc Fàbregas, Andrés Iniesta, David Silva, Jesús Navas

Forwards: Pedro Rodríguez, Fernando Llorente, Fernando Torres

While Puerto Rico's lineup does not include any recognizable names and in spite of failing to qualify for the 2014 World Cup, a meeting against La Roja will prove beneficial, with hopes to inspire future generations and to grow as a football nation.

Watch the match live tomorrow on ESPN Deportes and ESPN3, 4:30PM Eastern Time.

written by Gail Hidalgo