BLOEMFONTEIN, South Africa (AP)

Spain is relishing the pressure of going for another record today when the European champions play the United States in the Confederations Cup semi-finals.

Spain can surpass Brazil's record 35-match unbeaten run from 1993-96 by reaching Sunday's final, but the Spanish remain wary of their surprise opponents.

mantle of favourites

"They have less pressure. They have nothing to lose. For them, it's a positive that we assume the title of favourite, the responsibility and the pressure," Spain midfielder Xavi Hernandez said yesterday. "We assume the mantle of favourites, but it won't be an easy match. Not at all."

Spain has shown it can handle pressure situations, including at last year's European Champion-ship when it beat Germany 1-0 to lift its first major trophy in 44 years.

Now, if the team can get past the United States, which is ranked 13 spots below top-ranked Spain, it has a chance to make it two trophies in two years.

"We know the importance of this tournament and we want to reach the final," Xavi said.

With Brazil facing South Africa in the other semi-final match, most are expecting a Spain-Brazil final on Sunday. Overlooking the Americans is something Spain will avoid, according to coach Vicente del Bosque.

"We have to be careful to stop their strongest points, and these are clear," Del Bosque said about the Americans' attacking midfield, led by Landon Donovan. "We're going to go out looking to stop their counterattack and dominate behind our style of play."

Spain, which hasn't lost a game since November 2006, is also looking to extend its record 15-game winning streak.