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Defending World Cup champion Spain announced its 23-man roster Saturday, and the biggest news was its inclusions rather than any notable omissions. An injured Diego Costa will be making the trip to Brazil, as will Juan Mata and Fernando Torres, two players rumored to be in danger of being cut.
OFFICIAL | These are the 23 players who will represent us in a DREAM to conquer the second WORLD CUP! pic.twitter.com/nLWIKMCGDD
— Selección Española (@SeFutbol) May 31, 2014
Costa was perhaps the biggest surprise, given the bleak circumstance he found himself in after suffering a hamstring tear. But he will be making the trip, even though his fitness level remains a concern.
Torres perhaps benefitted from his performance in a friendly with Bolivia Friday, as the Chelsea striker netted a goal.
Spain will open play two weeks from today against the Netherlands. Those two will be joined by Chile and Australia in Group B.
Below is the roster in full, with each player's club affiliation.
Goalkeepers: Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Pepe Reina (Napoli), David De Gea (Manchester United)
Defenders: Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Gerard Pique, Jordi Alba (Barcelona), Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea), Juanfran (Atletico Madrid), Javi Martinez (Bayern Munich), Raul Albiol (Napoli)
Midfielders: Sergio Busquets (Barcelona), Xavi Hernandez (Barcelona), Andres Iniesta (Barcelona), Cesc Fabregas (Barcelona), Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid), David Silva (Manchester City), Santi Cazorla (Arsenal), Koke (Atletico Madrid), Juan Mata (Manchester United)
Forwards: Diego Costa (Atletico Madrid), David Villa (Atletico Madrid), Pedro Rodriguez (Barcelona), Fernando Torres (Chelsea)
