Luis de la Fuente: "We are now focused on the World Cup"

The Spanish National Team fought until the very last second, until the match went to a dramatic penalty shoot-out, but were not able to defend their UEFA Nations League title. Portugal, a team that had also already won the trophy previously, snatched the dream from Spain’s hands, with the score 2-2 after normal play, and 5-3 on penalties. After the match, Luis de la Fuente spoke to the media from the press room of the Allianz Arena in Munich (Germany).

"I want to express our condolences to the family of a fan who appears to have passed away. That reminds us of what is truly important. We offer them our deepest sympathies," Luis de la Fuente began.

Regarding the post-match team talk, the national coach shared the message he gave to his players: "It was simply to highlight what they had already achieved, to acknowledge the pride we have in them, to show them that we are with them and that now yes, we are looking to the World Cup, which is the goal."

"We wanted to give the game a bit more energy and control. We were looking to reenergise the team, especially down the flanks," he commented on the substitution of Lamine Yamal.

Regarding the management of the penalty takers, the Spanish coach explained: "The goals scored in the penalty shoot-out were of a very high level, Morata’s was saved. The players who stepped up wanted to take them. Álvaro is a champion and a role model. I regret that it had to be him who missed. I am the one responsible. Players who miss penalties are the ones who step up to take them."

"When the match ended and we exchanged thoughts with the Portuguese team, they all told me we were the best team they had faced. We did not change anything from our initial plan, and of course, there were momentum changes during a match of that level. Portugal played incredibly. The match was finely balanced. Perhaps we should have taken some of the chances we had. Whoever wins is a worthy winner, they are a great team," De la Fuente reflected on the final against the Portuguese side. And he added: "I want to congratulate them because they are a great team."

"I am proud of all we’ve given, the trajectory we’re on, the image we have given of ourselves and of my players," the coach emphasised.

"Success is being in a position to win and this National Team always will be there or thereabouts. There is incredible individual talent in this group. We will always be close to winning," Luis de la Fuente concluded.

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