"I did not have a chance to watch them play Morocco, but Spain looked strong playing against Portugal and Iran," Kirichenko said.

"Spain force the opponent to go into defence. But even they are not perfect, they have problems in defence. That's why we'll have our chances... Quick counter attacks will be the most effective weapon."

He added that Spain forward Diego Costa, who had scored three goals during the group stage, was "very dangerous" and Russia defenders would have to keep an eye on him.

Last time Russia played 2010 World Cup winners Spain in a friendly in November 2017 drawing with the Spanish side 3-3.

The round of 16 match between Russia and Spain will take place at Moscow's Luzhniki stadium on Monday (12am AEST).

The FIFA World Cup will continue until July 15, with the matches set to be played in 11 cities across Russia.