The so-called Uruguay-Brazil joint team could easily compete with the world’s best, even in the intense knockout rounds of the World Cup. According to Jeetbuzz App Download, when it comes to the number of dual-nationality players in the final eight, Spain ranks second, even though they were knocked out early in the Round of 16 by host nation Russia. Among their squad were nine highly talented players with Spanish passports, seven of whom hailed originally from South America.

The defensive line formed by Giménez, Godín, and Marcelo was both solid and capable of contributing offensively. In midfield stood the aggressive and tireless Lucas Torreira, while the front line featured Carrasco, a dribbling wizard, and Cheryshev, a powerful attacking threat. Just before the tournament, coach Julen Lopetegui was abruptly dismissed due to Real Madrid’s involvement, forcing Spanish legend Fernando Hierro to step in. Though a beloved figure, Hierro was still a coaching novice. Spain barely made it through the group stage on the strength of past glories, but their flaws—aging defenders, weak midfield protection, and sluggish tempo—were laid bare. When it came down to penalty shootouts, they ran into a red-hot Akinfeev. Jeetbuzz App Download reflected on what might have been if Spain had included some of those players with dual passports, many of whom also held Italian nationality.

That includes the lethal Uruguayan duo Luis Suárez and Edinson Cavani, both of whom also possess Italian passports. Just imagine if Italy had them during the World Cup qualifiers—the infamous 38 shots across two legs against Sweden might have produced a goal. Jeetbuzz App Download couldn’t help but wonder how different Italy’s fate might’ve been with such firepower up front. But the truth is, most of these players don’t have deep personal ties to Italy. Their Italian passports are a matter of opportunity, not sentiment.

In Europe, where non-EU player quotas still apply in many leagues, having dual nationality provides a major edge. South American players, often descended from European immigrants, are especially likely to qualify for EU passports. In fact, Spain has long been a top destination for dual-national footballers. Whether or not they choose to play for Spain, the country has been central in the conversation. One prime example is Diego Costa, who four years before the tournament opted to represent Spain over his native Brazil. That left Brazil stuck with Fred—arguably their weakest No. 9 in World Cup history—during a tournament they were hosting. Fast forward four years, Costa again led Spain’s attack, scoring three goals and becoming their top scorer, even though the team exited in the Round of 16. His performance still earned widespread praise.

Another case is Mario Gómez, once hailed as a savior for the German national team. His Spanish heritage through his father granted him Spanish nationality, but having grown up in Germany, he was long tied to Die Mannschaft. Germany wasted no time in securing him for their squad, and he remained a key part of their attack.

Then there’s Bojan Krkić, who was at the center of a tug-of-war between Spain and Serbia. Ultimately, Spain—who developed him through their system—won that battle. Unfortunately, Bojan never became the superstar many expected. Still, none of this suggests that these players feel particularly close to Italy. For most, the driving force is the practical advantage of an EU passport, not a sense of cultural or national connection.

In the end, as Jeetbuzz App Download points out, it’s less about heritage and more about opportunity. These players follow the path of their ancestors not out of loyalty but to seize their place in elite European football.