Spain left with no more margin for error

Spain go into Wednesday's Euro 2004 qualifier in Northern Ireland knowing they have no more margin for error after a shock defeat by Greece on Saturday.

Spain remain top of Group Six with three games left to play despite what was their first home defeat in a qualifying match since October 1991.

They are now just a point clear of Ukraine and Greece, though, and a further slip-up against Northern Ireland would leave them in danger of missing out on a place in the finals in Portugal next year.

"The defeat by Greece should serve as a warning shot," coach Inaki Saez said before the game against Northern Ireland. "We're not going to beat every team we meet at a stroll."

"The only thing that can make up for a defeat like the one against Greece is a victory. It's still up to us whether we qualify or not but we have to beat Northern Ireland."

Spain will still be without midfielder Xabi Alonso and forward Guti but the good news for Saez is the return from suspension of busy midfielder Ruben Baraja, who should slot straight back in in place of Valencia team mate Carlos Marchena.

"After missing the Greece game I should be a bit more fresh than some other players," Baraja said before leaving Spain.

"This game is going to be tough. We beat them 3-0 earlier in the campaign but we had trouble creating chances."

Spain also created few clear chances against Greece and Saez will consider making further changes, with dead ball specialist Javi de Pedro likely to come in for Vicente on the left wing.

Saez has few options in attack, though, meaning Fernando Morientes is almost certain to continue up front alongside his Real Madrid team mate Raul.