Manaus (Brazil), June 14: England coach Roy Hudgson was surprised with defending champions Spain's 1-5 thrashing by the Netherlands in their opening Group B game at the 2014 World Cup in Salvador.

Hudgson said that the "fall" of the reigning world champions was not expected at all, reports EFE.

The Englishman was leaving the hotel along with the team for a pre-match press conference Friday when both Spain and Netherlands were sharing a 1-1 draw. But later Hodgson was surprised to hear that Spain had conceded four goals in the second half.

The 59-year-old went on to say that they have been studying Italy with all its tactics since the World Cup draw, noting that they are ready for them.

On Saturday, England will face Italy in Group D that also includes Uruguay and Costa Rica.

IANS