Seven stalwarts start as Spain begin title defence

SALVADOR Brazil (Reuters) - Spain start the defence of their World Cup title against the Netherlands on Friday with seven players who featured in the final against the Dutch in South Africa four years ago.

But Brazil-born striker Diego Costa, a recent convert to the Spanish cause, has been selected ahead of Fernando Torres, who was a late substitute in their 1-0 extra-time final win in Johannesburg, for the Group B opener at the Forte Nova arena.

The Dutch have four players remaining from the side beaten by Spain in the 2010 decider, but their hopes are firmly pinned on captain Robin van Persie, Nigel de Jong, Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder, who wins his 100th cap.

Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal will play a 3-5-2 formation with Jonathan de Guzman having recovered from a hamstring strain to be chosen ahead of Jordy Clasie in midfield.

(Reporting by Mark Gleeson; Editing by Ken Ferris)