Luis de la Fuente: “I don’t understand football without suffering”

Spain have beaten France in the UEFA Nations League semi-final and secured their place in the grand final against Portugal. It was an epic match, finishing 5-4, and one which became complicated after the national team had been leading authoritatively by 5 goals to 1. However, Luis de la Fuente is fully aware of how difficult these matches always are against strong sides such as France: “I don’t understand sport or football without suffering. I thrive on it,” said the coach shortly after the end of the match.

“There were two great teams who made the most of their moments. I take a positive view and, in fact, I’d take winning every match in my career 5-4 without a second thought,” he explained.

The Spain coach also emphasised the importance of “bravery” when it comes to taking penalties, which on this occasion fell to Lamine Yamal. “There is no improvisation. We have many penalty takers and very good ones too.”

He also wanted to highlight the role of Unai Simón, whom he said has “fantastic qualities and that, as well as being a great goalkeeper, he’s an incredible teammate who always contributes,” as well as Mikel Oyarzabal. “He had a huge game. He’s a footballer who reads the game very well between the lines and has great quality near the box.”

Having said all this, finishing the job against Portugal in the grand final remains the objective. “It will be a great match. We have to approach it as what it is — a final between two very strong teams. Our players are hungry, ambitious, and want to keep making history with the national team.”

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