Spain goalkeeper Santiago Canizares accepts his national side has developed a reputation as under-achievers but believes the team can win the World Cup.

Canizares is currently second in the pecking order behind Iker Casillas after an impressive season in goal for Valencia.

However he is set to be given a chance to play in Spain's final friendly match against Croatia on Wednesday.

"We are fighting against history but we have a good team," he said.

"It is going to be a very even competition but we can win of course as we have quality in the team.

"We have to be concentrated in every game though as to underestimate is the biggest error in sport."

Spain made it to the quarter-finals of the last World Cup but fell victim to some dubious refereeing when they lost to South Korea.

Canizares had been set to be the number one at that tournament, but right before the start of the World Cup he suffered a freak injury when he dropped a bottle of cologne on his foot.

Now he is Casillas' under-study.

When asked about his role in this summer's team, he said: "I get paid to work as I am a professional, it is not important how I feel, what I have to do is be honest with the team and with myself.

"It is different for keepers, I cannot say whether I will have a chance to play, all I can do is work and enjoy the experience.

"I am the oldest player in the squad and I am envious when I see the rest, they have their careers ahead of them and that is a nice position to be in.

"However, experience and the ability to reflect are keys in sport."