THE Dominican Republic caused an upset by holding Egypt to a draw in their Olympics opener and will be out to prove that was no flash in the pan when they take on mighty Spain in their second Group C clash.
The minnows were rank outsiders heading into their first major tournament but I thought the addition of some experienced defenders might make them a hard to but to crack for the Egyptians.
That's how it turned out as the African side drew a blank, although you suspect the Dominican Republic will have a harder time keeping Spain out.
But the Spaniards had a tough time breaking down Uzbekistan in their opener, eventually grinding out a 2-1 win that took them to the summit of the group.
They're missing some of their brightest young stars, with the likes of Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams and Pedri sitting the Olympics out after playing in the victorious Euro 2024 side.
And if the Dominican Republic defend as if their lives depend on it once more, Spain will need plenty of craft and trickery to break them down.
How the bookies view it: Minnows written off again
Despite their impressive result on day one, the Dominican Republic are 12/1 rank outsiders with Betfred for this one. Spain are just 1/8 and even the draw is hefty at 8/1.
Head to head: Another first meeting
With the Dominican Republic never qualifying for a major finals, they've never faced most of their opponents before and that's the case with Spain.
Players to watch: Sergio's stepping up for Spain
Sergio Gomez was heavily involved for Spain against Uzbekistan, having a penalty saved before making amends by netting the winner. The Manchester City kid plays in a more advanced role for his county and looks a little overpriced at 15/4 with Bet365 for another goal.
Girona winger Oscar Urena could be a threat for the Dominican Republic. He's 8/1 with Bet365 to stun the Spanish with a goal.
Probable line-ups
After their brave display against Egypt, I'd imagine the Dominican Republic will go with the same starting XI. Leeds defender Junior Firpo sat out the opener and is a doubt again with the short turnaround in games. The Spanish might be tempted to make a few changes after an unconvincing display against Uzbekistan.
Dominican Republic: Valdez, de Lucas, Pujol, Urbaez, Marian, Morschel, Messina, Nunez, Gonzalez, Lorenzo, Urena
Spain: Tenas, Miranda, Garcia, Pubill, Cubarsi, Gomez, Baena, Oroz, Barrios, Lopez, Ruiz
Anything else catch the eye?
How this game will pan out will depend on if Spain can grab an early goal. If they find a way through then this could be a comfortable win as the Dominicans would need to come out and leave some gaps at the back.
But the Spanish didn't impress in their opener so I'm going to back them for a win with under 3.5 goals at 11/10 with Betfred.
Most goals came in the first half for Spain's clash with Uzbekistan but I fancy the thrills to come after the break here, a bet that pays evens.
This Olympics match between Dominican Republic and Spain will be played on Jul 27, 2024 and kick off at 14:00. Check below for our tipsters best Dominican Republic vs Spain prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
