Toothless Spain unable to cash in against Russia

ALBACETE, Spain, May 28 (Reuters) Spain displayed their customary problems in attack as they were held to a 0-0 draw by Russia in a World Cup warm-up in Albacete today.

Coach Luis Aragones tried out the new 4-3-3 formation he wants to use in Germany with Fernando Torres, Luis Garcia and David Villa starting up front and all three enjoyed good chances in the opening 20 minutes.

But despite monopolising possession, Spain failed to build on their promising start and were unable to breach a well-drilled Russian defence.

Captain Raul, who started on the bench, had a great chance to break the deadlock in the second half after skipping past two defenders but he scuffed the ball 10 metres wide of the post with just the keeper to beat.

Fellow substitute Jose Antonio Reyes went far closer to giving Spain the lead 16 minutes from time when he unleashed a rasping drive from 35 metres but was denied when Igor Akinfeyev produced a fine diving save.

Spain play further warm-up games against African champions Egypt in Elche and fellow World Cup qualifiers Croatia before departing for Germany.

They open their campaign against Ukraine in Leipzig on June 14 and then play Tunisia and Saudi Arabia in their remaining Group H matches.

Reuters DH RN0412