Seville, Spain  - England manager Fabio Capello praised Spain on Tuesday and said the team his squad is up against in a friendly on Wednesday "has its own typical play, similar to the South American variant, but with greater speed."

The match between England and European champion Spain in Seville has prompted great expectations given the good run both teams are enjoying. It also marks Capello's return to a country he loves, following two stints as Real Madrid coach.

"At this point Spain have players with a most impressive level. They have great quality in midfield and in attack, and they play very good football," the Italian coach said.

Comparisons are being drawn between Spain and Barcelona for sharing the same philosophy of making good use of the ball to win matches.

Capello partly agreed with that interpretation, although he saw a subtle difference between the two teams. "Barcelona, in addition, has
(Argentine striker Lionel) Messi," he said.

Capello's men are set to play a side coached by Vicente del Bosque, with whom the Italian gets on well.

"He works with great intelligence because he has kept to the groundwork of (predecessor) Luis Aragones. You do not have to change a lot in a winning team," Capello said.

Spain and England are set to show two contrasting styles on Wednesday. Whereas Spain depends on elaborate buildups and ball possession, England relies on energy and quick changes of pace.

"Spain cannot play like England and England cannot play like Spain. You cannot ask the players do do strange things because everyone has their own style," Capello said. (dpa)