A loss or even a draw against France could increase the very real possibility of World and European champions Spain having to make it to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil via the playoffs.
Following their shock 1-1 draw against Finland Friday, Spain currently lie two points behind France in Group I. A win will take the favorites back to the top of the group, while anything less could seriously hamper their chances of qualifying for next year's showpiece.
"It worries us a bit when we have so much possession and are camped on their penalty area but cannot get through but at the same time there is no reason to get nervous or lose patience," Spain coach Vicente Del Bosque said.
"I don't expect the game against France to be like that. It's going to be much more open than the Finland game. I hope they play defensively and we can spend the whole match around their penalty area. Normally we would finish as winners.
"We are not anxious at all. It is logical to reflect after our last two games. Despite dominating we couldn't score more than once, so it is understandable that people will have doubts, but we must stay calm, open up the pitch and use the width. We need solutions.
"They have talented players such as (Karim) Benzema, (Franck) Ribery, (Yohan) Cabaye, (Mathieu) Valbuena. They have power in the full-back areas, too, and are a very good team. When the draw was made we knew France would be very difficult opponents for us. They have quality, experience and know how to play games like these."
France coach Didier Deschamps believes Spain will go all out for the win after their result against Finland.
"Spain will force us to defend," he told L'Equipe. "The best team in the world will be playing against us. Still, playing with just defence in mind will not be the solution. The game ahead will be complicated and difficult, but we cannot afford to be apprehensive."
Spain are sweating on the fitness of Xavi and Xabi Alonso, while Jordi Alba and David Silva are out because of injury and suspension respectively.
To watch France vs Spain Live Stream, click here.
Expected lineups: France: Lloris; Jallet, Koscielny, Sakho, Evra; Pogba, Matuidi, Cabaye; Valbuena, Giroud, Ribery.
Spain: Valdes; Arbeloa, Pique, Ramos, Monreal; Xavi, Busquets, Alonso; Pedro, Villa, Iniesta.
Prediction: 2-1 to Spain
