Torres out to beat underdogs

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres is expected to be named in the starting line-up for Spain’s FIFA Confederations Cup semi-final against the USA in Johannesburg tonight.

Torres is joint top-scorer of the tournament so far with three goals, the same as his strike partner David Villa.

And Torres says that the Americans fully deserve their place in the semi-final after coming second, behind Brazil, in a group that also contained Italy and Egypt.

He says, “They are in the semis because they’ve earned the right to be there,” he said. “These games can be very dangerous because the rival has nothing to lose and everything to gain. They are going to try and enjoy the experience, and normally when that happens, things actually turn out well.

“I’m sure that the USA will take on board what Iraq and South Africa did, and add it to their game as they look to make life difficult for us.”

So far in the competition, all five of Liverpool’s Spanish representatives have been in action for Spain, although only Torres and Albert Riera are expected to start tonight.

Spain vs USA kicks of at 7.30pm (UK).