It might be the least important match about deciding the outcome of the World Cup champion but for Spain and Uruguay, their opening Pool A match at Galashiels today is a `do-or-die' for both sides.

Both Latin sides know that the match is their one and only chance of pulling off a historic World Cup finals victory.

Spanish team manager Alfonso Mandado readily admits today's match is his side's chance for one moment of glory.

And despite losing 20-3 to Uruguay in a tournament in Italy last month, Mandado is convinced his side can gain revenge.

"I am sure we can beat Uruguay. We are very confident," said Mandado, a university professor.

"We are learning all the time but there is still a lot more we need to learn fast.

"It is so important for us to win this match before we have to face Scotland and South Africa."

Much of Spain's hopes rest on the trusted boot of their Ukranian-born out-half Andrei Kovalenco.

The 27-year-old was Spain's top scorer in the qualifiers with 45 points but with wet muddy conditions forecast, Kovalenco will need to be on his best form.

Uruguay are equally focused on the single match, none more than captain Diego Ormaechea who at 40 is the oldest player in the World Cup.

For Ormaechea, the showdown against Spain is the opportunity to end his career on a high.

And he will be counting on his pack, in particular the Bristol-based 19-stone prop Pablo Lemoine.