Sergio Garcia expects qualification for the knockout stages to be a difficult task at this week’s Volvo World Match Play Championship.

The Spaniard will be competing on home territory at Finca Cortesin, where he faces compatriot Alvaro Quiros and Japan’s Tetsuji Hiratsuka in the Ian Woosnam group.

Despite being the fifth seed, the highest in his group, Garcia insists both his opponents have the ability to bring his week to an early end. 

“I'm looking forward to it,” said the 32 year old. “I just hope that I can get my game in good shape for tomorrow, and have a couple of good days to qualify for Saturday and then we'll see what happens. 

“Everybody knows how exciting and how special it is for any guy to play in his own country. In this case, obviously for me being Spanish and playing here in Spain is always very special. 

“I think there are good players everywhere, in every group. It's going to be difficult no matter what. 

“Obviously Alvaro I know very well, and he's a great player. With his game, he'll be tough to beat. Hiratsuka, I have not played with him that much, but obviously we know the potential that the Japanese players have, so it will be another competitive match. 

“Hopefully I can play nicely, and if I manage to do that, then get a couple of wins and get through. If not, I have to at least get one and make sure that my differential is good.”

As well as being keen to win a European Tour title on home soil for the sixth time, Garcia knows this week’s lucrative €2,750,000 prize fund represents an excellent chance to boost his Ryder Cup prospects. 

“You all know how important The Ryder Cup is for me, so I'm looking forward to it,” he added. “There's still a long time to go. I have a good possibility if I play half decent to get into the team, and that is definitely one of my goals.”