Spain international defender Nacho Monreal has insisted that his side need to win against France in Paris in their World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.
The reigning European and world champions will head into the game at Stade de France two points behind Les Bleus in second place in Group I following their 1-1 home draw with Finland on Friday.
"It is too early to talk about finals, but there is no margin for error," ESPNSoccernet quotes Monreal as saying.
"To lose there would leave us five points behind France. We must win so that our destiny remains in our own hands, as it still is now.
"It is a very important game. It could be that Jordi's absence has opened a door for me, but we do not know who is going to play. I have a chance. I am training to perform at the maximum level because there is a lot on the line in this game."
Monreal or Chelsea full-back Cesar Azpilicueta is likely to replace the injured Jordi Alba in the Spain starting lineup on Tuesday.