Spain's World Cup preparations were thrown into turmoil on Wednesday as Real Madrid-bound coach Julen Lopetegui was fired on the eve of the tournament, just two days before their opening game in Russia. In a bombshell development which followed the naming of Lopetegui as Real's new coach on Tuesday, the Spanish federation confirmed that the 2010 World Cup winners had sacked their coach and replaced him with Fernando Hierro. "We don't have time to feel sorry for ourselves," said Hierro. "The objective is to fight for a World Cup. The players have been working towards this for two years. I've told the players that we have a wonderful, exciting challenge and we can't let this be an excuse to distract us from our dream." Spain will face European champions Portugal in Sochi tonight.

Rushed decision: Xavi
"Lopetegui's decision was inopportune, unexpected and rushed," former Barcelona midfielder Xavi Hernandez, who won the 2010 World Cup, Euro 2012 and Euro 2016 with Spain, said. "It was a surprise for everyone but Rubiales reacted very well. He has looked after the federation, which should be above any individual." However, according to reports in the Spanish media, the players tried to intervene to prevent Lopetegui's sacking. "I have spoken with the players and what I can guarantee is that they will do everything in their power to take the team as far as possible," said Rubiales.