While most teams are wary of its attack, Spain is proving difficult to score against as it attempts to win the World Cup for the first time.

The European champions' defence conceded two goals in the group stage in South Africa, and neutralised Portugal winger Cristiano Ronaldo in a 1-0 win on Tuesday that took Spain through to the quarterfinals against Paraguay on Saturday.

Fullbacks Sergio Ramos and Joan Capdevila stood out against Portugal on either side of central defenders Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique as the back four has steadily become more stable after a nervy start to the tournament.

Ramos, who came close to scoring against Portugal, said confidence was high and the team was getting better.

"I think the team is having a great championship at a world-class tournament, and showing it's in the midst of a great moment where our confidence and play is at the top," Ramos said. "We have suffered (along the way) but it's justified by the fact we're in the quarterfinals."

The 24-year-old Ramos has been a Spain regular since his debut in 2005, making 64 appearances already.

The Real Madrid player's versatility means he can play any of the back four positions. His heading ability and bursts up the wing have given Spain further depth in attack. Spain has delivered more crosses than any other team, mostly thanks to Ramos.

While Barcelona duo Puyol and Pique's abilities are also well-known, Capdevila may be Spain's most anonymous player.

The 32-year-old Villarreal player has been a mainstay in Spain's lineup since before its Euro 2008 triumph and, despite an inconsistent club season and some aging legs, he showed his worth against the Portuguese.

Coach Vicente del Bosque said players like Capdevila were the reason momentum was building for Spain following its 1-0 loss to Switzerland to open the tournament.

"The most anonymous players had incredible games," Del Bosque said before singling out Ramos, Capdevila and defensive midfielder Sergio Busquets. "Playing like this makes it easier for us to control the game."

Under Del Bosque, Spain's defence has allowed 11 goals in 19 competitive games, while scoring 44.

The fact that team has only earned a single yellow card - given to Xabi Alonso against Portugal - in South Africa also shows how the Spanish defence has been able to handle counter attacks cleanly.

No Spain player has been given a red card since Alonso was sent off against Iceland in September 2007.

Capdevila is also one of the keys to Spain's dressing room unity. Often labelled the team joker, Capdevila has been known for a quick quip even in the most anxious moments of a big game.

"Whatever my role in the team, I'll accept it," Capdevila said before arriving in South Africa. "If I need to help inside the dressing room I will and if I need to on the field, I will also. What's most important is that the team works, whether I play or not."

Spain's attack will also need to worry about Paraguay's equally strong defence at Ellis Park - the South Americans haven't conceded a goal since it's 1-1 draw against Italy in the opening game.

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