Andorra take new direction

Having lost 5-0 to England and 4-1 to Israel, the Andorra coach David Rodrigo has added some younger players to his latest squad to take on Croatia and F.Y.R. Macedonia in Group E.

Promoted
Goalkeeper José Antonio Gómes, defender Jordi Rubio, midfielder Marcio Vieira and strike duo Juan Carlos Toscano and Gabi Riera have been promoted in the absence of Fernando Silva and Ildefons Lima (both suspended), the dropped Toni Lima and Txema García as he nurses a calf injury. Marc Bernaus will not play in Croatia on Saturday as he has league commitments with Elche CF in Spain, but is available for Wednesday's visit of the Macedonians.

Famous goal
Two years ago, the striker scored the only goal against the same opponents as Andorra recorded their maiden victory in a competitive match. Rodrigo said: "Croatia are a very physical side. I think they'll probably qualify for the finals, although England are the favourites to win the group."

Andorra squad
Goalkeepers: Koldo Álvarez (FC Andorra), José Antonio Gómes (SD Eivissa).

Defenders: Javi Sánchez (FC Andorra), Jordi Rubio (FC Andorra), José Manuel Ayala (FC Santa Coloma), Juli Fernández (FC Santa Coloma).

Midfielders: Óscar Sonejee (FC Andorra), Antoni Sivera (US Luzenac), Manolo Jiménez (FC Andorra), Justo Ruiz (Rànger's FC), Genís García (Rànger's FC), Marcio Vieira (SD Eivissa), Jordi Escura (FC Benavent), Marc Bernaus (Elche CF).

Forwards: Marc Pujol (UE Santboiana), Sergio Moreno (SD Eivissa), Juli Sánchez (FC Andorra), Juan Carlos Toscano (FC Santa Coloma), Gabi Riera (Cádiz CF B).