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Luis de la Fuente: "Now a different kind of European Championships begins".

The Spain coach expresses his caution ahead of the Last 16 tie at the European Championships: "Georgia are coming off the back of a win against Portugal and anything can happen in a one off match".
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Sat, 29/06/2024 - 22:50

SEE WHAT ROBIN LE NORMAND HAD TO SAY AHEAD OF SPAIN-GEORGIA

In spite of being favourites for the eliminatory clash, Spain head into Sunday's Last 16 encounter with no margin for error and will have to be at their best in the match.

Luis de la Fuente is well aware of the importance of the situation, which is why he is trying to keep his cool ahead of the Georgia game, pointing out that "we are talking about a team that has just beaten Portugal and I have seen a lot in football. Now, we are starting a different kind of European Championships and we are not expecting an easy game.

The home and away wins over the Caucasians in qualifying for this tournament are not a reason to get complacent for the coach, who has fond memories of the 7-1 win in Tbilisi, where "we showed that we are a very cohesive team and started to build the concept of being a family. We came out of it much stronger, but they also learned something that night and their own coach recognises that that is why they are here.

Of Willy Sagnol's team, he points out that "their counter-attacks are very quick and being vigilant will be key. They are also strong at set pieces. We have to keep an eye on all phases of the game".

For the coach from La Rioja, the important thing is to "play to our strengths, because we want to continue growing and improving, knowing that mistakes will be paid for and come at a heavy cost".

Speaking to the media, the coach thanked the Spanish fans for their affection during the tournament, saying: "So far we have felt very well supported by the fans. We are very happy with their response and we feel their backing on a daily basis here in Germany

The atmosphere in the camp was one of affection and confidence, but without the slightest hint of complacency ahead of the first knockout match of the tournament, the coach continued by saying "no game has been comfortable so far….. We hope to continue in the same vein tomorrow. There is a lot of room for improvement and a lot to play for," he affirmed.

 

 

 

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