Can you tell me some unique facts about La Roja in FIFA 2014?

“ La Roja”, or “Red Fury”, as ardent supporters and hardcore fans refer to the Spanish football team, are the hot favourites of FIFA 2014. If you are a true-blue Spanish fan, then here’s all you need to know about Spain’s matches at FIFA 2014.


Photo of La Roja - Spanish Football Team’s key players (by Steindy)

FIFA 2014 is the Spanish team’s tenth consecutive appearance at this football extravaganza. Team Spain are the defending champions.


Photo of Iker Casillas (by Jan SOLO)

Iker Casillas is the captain of team La Roja and is a formidable goalkeeper. With a string of crucial goal saves to his credit, he is one of the world’s best goalkeepers and has the ability to change the odds of the game in favour of Spain. Besides him, the other Spanish players to watch out for include Sergio Ramos, Jordi Alba, Gerard Pique, Victor Valdes, David de Gea, Pepe Reina, Cesc Fabregas and Andres Iniesta.


Photo of a match in progress (by Alejandro Castro)

Here’s taking a look at the matches that are scheduled for La Roja, the cities you need to head to and the stadiums they are being played at in Brazil.

1 - 13 June, 4:00 PM, Spain v/s Netherlands, Salvador, Arena Fonte Nova
2 - 18 June, 4:00 PM, Spain v/s Chile, Rio de Janeiro, Estadio De Maracana
3 - 23 June, 1:00 PM, Australia v/s Spain, Curitiba, Arena Da Baixada

(The timings of the matches are in accordance with Brazilian local time)

Salvador

Photo of Salvador (by Adam Jones)

Salvador is the country’s third-most populous country and is a culturally rich storehouse of African elements, which dominate the spheres of art, dance, music and martial arts here. This rich African heritage has led it to be called Roma Negra (Black Rome). The city is divided into two important parts -- Cidade Baixa (Low City, located close to the coast) and Cidade Alta (High City, located in the elevated part of the city).

Arena Fonte Nova


Photo of Arena Fonte Nova (by Faquini Produção Fotográfica; Fotógrafo David Campbell)

Arena Fonte Nova, where Spain play the Netherlands on 13th June, has the privilege of hosting the top-seed teams of the World Cup. It is located at a walkable distance from the central part of the city -- Pelourinho.

Grub options

Casa de Tereza is a restaurant with good options for snacks with drinks. Bar Da Ponta, Paraiso Tropical and Restaurant so Senac are other options close to the stadium.

Stay
A Casa Das Portas Velhas Hotel is a great option for someone looking for a luxury accommodation located close to the stadium. Hotel Pousada Beija Flor is a pocket-friendly option.

Rio De Janeiro


Photo of Rio (by Nico Kaiser)

Rio is the country’s second most populous city and is undoubtedly the most popular city in Brazil. Rio De Janeiro is known for its UNESCO World Heritage Site -- Christ the Redeemer, which is situated atop the Corcovado Mountain. The city has many beautiful beaches, Copacabana and Ipanema being the most famous ones.

Maracana Stadium


Photo of Maracana Stadium (by Arthur Boppre)

The opening ceremony of FIFA 2014 will take place at the Maracana Stadium. Spain will play Chile on 18th June at this stadium. It is the largest stadium in South America.

Grub options

Amarelinho is a low-mid budget restaurant option. Barra Grill, Riso and Lord Jim Pub are popular eateries with a plethora of options for food and drinks.

Stay

Whether you happen to be backpacking through Brazil or simply are on the lookout for something economical, hostel stay options are a good way to go. Walk On The Beach Hostel and Rio Rockers Hostel are the most popular hostel stay options in the city of Rio. Atlantis Copacabana Hotel is a good luxury stay option and offers brilliant views of the Copacabana Beach.

Curitiba


Photo of Curitiba (by Morio)

Curitiba is the most populous region in southern Brazil. It is filled with carefully manicured green spaces, well-maintained gardens and state-of-the-art infrastructure. Curitiba’s locals are called curitibanos and are a mix of a range of nationalities and ethnicities. It is this cultural mix that makes Curitiba such an interesting place to visit.

Arena Da Baixada


Photo of Arena Da Baixada (by J.M.Guimaraes)

Spain will play Australia here on 23rd June. Equipped with all kinds of modern amenities, it is well-appointed to host all kinds of matches.

Grub options

Manu, Bombordo and Galpao Costaneira are great options for food. Local delights and seafood fare are scrumptious options to go for. Aos Democratas is a great option for someone looking forward to have a good time drinking.

Stay

Slaviero Rockefeller is located very close to the stadium and offers a range of luxury room options. Curitiba offers a few hostels which are well-suited for those looking for mid-budget options. Roma Hostel or the Curitiba Eco Hostel are popular options.

While you prepare for your journey to Brazil and look forward to the scenic vistas you are about to be greeted with on arrival, don't forget to carry your La Roja (Team Spain) tee shirts to the stadium. Display your staunch support and happily so. Cheers!

At the end here are two picture postcards to live by for La Roja supporters:




Photos from wikimedia commons

Here’s hoping for the victory of Spain in FIFA 2014 followed by a jubilant outcry of “Felicitaciones (Felicitations)!”