Spain Shines Against Reigning Champions:
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente expressed his pride as Spain secured a 1-0 victory over Italy, the reigning European champions, to qualify for the last 16 of Euro 2024. Riccardo Calafiori’s own goal decided the match in Gelsenkirchen, showcasing Spain’s dominance and earning them a perfect six points from two games in Group B.
De la Fuente’s Confidence:
De la Fuente praised his team’s performance, emphasizing their superiority in both physical and tactical aspects. “I think there is no team better than us,” he said, highlighting the difficulty of the competition and the importance of maintaining their form and focus. Despite their success, he urged caution, stressing that they haven’t achieved their ultimate goal yet.
Dominance on Display:
Spain’s dominance was evident throughout the match, with Nico Williams hitting the bar in the second half, hinting that the scoreline could have been more emphatic. De la Fuente noted that this was the most complete game under his tenure, underscoring the team’s technical and tactical prowess.
READ ALSO
Nico Williams Shines as Spain Dominates Italy, Drawing Praise from Fans and Family Alike
Looking Ahead:
Spain’s victory guarantees them the top spot in Group B before their final group match against Albania. De la Fuente hinted at possible lineup changes for this game, aiming to keep the squad fresh and give opportunities to other players. Spain’s last-16 tie is set for June 30 in Cologne against a third-placed team from the group stage.
Maintaining Focus:
Despite the praise and early success, De la Fuente remains grounded, emphasizing the need to stay prudent and focused. “We need to remain prudent. We are not going to lose our heads because of all the praise,” he said, underlining the importance of consistent performance as they advance in the tournament.
[…] There is No Team Better Than Us,” Says Spain Coach De la Fuente […]