Spain play better with space. They don’t have to send all ten outfield players into the final third. Spread out and force the opponent to come to them, and then play into the opponent’s low block when you have a lead to protect.

It is difficult to resist following your teammates into the final third. Everyone wants to touch the ball.

But when they arrive in the final third with fewer numbers committed to occupying the space in the final third, the opponent’s half of the field opens. The opponent will want to press each pass.

I would rather face a defense that is chasing the ball than a defense that just has to block and watch.

When Spain occupy the entire half of the field, they force the other team to come out. When you beat one defender, then they panic, then you can commit everyone to occupy the space in the final third to score.