New Delhi: Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente believes that his team has rediscovered the spirit that carried them to their maidenWorld Cup title in 2010
after reaching the final of the ongoing edition with a 2-0 victory over France.
Speaking after the game, De la Fuente praised the team’s unity and selflessness, saying that the group reminds him of the squad that won the World Cup in South Africa 16 years ago. He further added that France faced the best team in the world and the players deserve everything.
“They (France) faced the best team in the world. We have that edge. These players deserve everything because day after day, they demonstrate their commitment, their generosity, their solidarity, and their talent.
The victory has extended Spain’s unbeaten run to 37 matches, equalling the record set by Italy. La Roja started their World Cup campaign with a goalless draw against Cape Verde in the first group game. But in the knockout rounds, Spain have defeated Portugal, Belgium and France while conceding just one goal.
“I see a happy dressing room and a nation behind us. We’ve recaptured the spirit of 2010. The character of this team is evident in the fact that those who didn’t play have stayed behind to train after the match,” he added.
Spain delivered a sensational performance to neutralise France’s in-form attack, which had netted 16 goals before the semi-final clash. Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise all struggled to score as the Les Bleus failed to register a shot on target until after the 80th minute.
‘This team never ceases to amaze me’
He credited Spain’s success in this tournament to the collective mentality within the squad, insisting that every member works towards one common goal.
“We know that this team—not just the players, but everyone who makes up the squad—works towards a common goal, with the same enthusiasm, and we are ordinary, generous people who seek the common good before our own individual interests.”
“This team never ceases to amaze me. The scope for improvement is endless,” he said. Spain will face the winner of the second semifinal between defending champion Argentina and England, which will be played on Thursday.
