Spain not yet on Brazil's level: Iniesta

Rio de Janeiro, May 21 (IANS) Andres Iniesta says Spain cannot yet claim to be on the same pedestal as Brazil in football’s international hierarchy.

The Barcelona midfielder has been a key member of a Spain team that has won the two European Championships and the 2010 World Cup.

In an interview with Brazilian daily O Globo, Iniesta said Brazil had maintained a unique aura owing to the country’s rich football history.

“To have won five World Cups like Brazil has is something that is practically unreachable for Spain,” Iniesta said Monday.

The 29-year-old also revealed his desire to play against the South American giants at Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Maracana stadium during next year’s World Cup.

“Spain against Brazil would be a huge match,” he said. “To play in Brazil is special for everybody.”

Iniesta is certain to be called upon by Spain coach Vicente del Bosque for next month’s Confederations Cup in Brazil, which will feature each of FIFA’s six regional champions and European runners-up Italy.