Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso is confident that Spain can retain the World Cup this summer.

Brazil are the bookmakers' favourites to claim the trophy on home soil, while a number of South American outfits, including Argentina, are expected to challenge.

However, Alonso believes that Spain's experience in recent competitions will stand them in good stead.

"Brazil, Germany, Argentina, Italy... historically they might have a chance but today everything is very tight and I'm not ruling out a surprise," Marca reports Alonso as saying.

"[Spain] have to know how to manage the pressure of defending the trophy and not seize or get nervous. I believe this team already has enough experience and can play these championships.

"[Not getting out of the group] would be a disappointment. We have to prepare well because it's a tough group."

Spain are the current European and world champions.