Luis de la Fuente, the head coach of Spain, expressed his admiration for his players' unity and dedication following their impressive 2-0 victory against France, which secured their place in the FIFA World Cup final. He emphasized that his team has demonstrated they are among the best globally.
During the post-match press conference, De la Fuente highlighted the significance of the match, reminding his players that while they were up against a formidable opponent in France, the French team was also facing the best team in the world. He stated, "The message was clear: we were up against one of the best teams, but they were also facing the best team."
The coach praised the squad's mentality and camaraderie, noting that their collective attitude has been crucial to their success. He remarked, "These players exhibit commitment, solidarity, and talent. They make challenging tasks appear effortless. The atmosphere in the dressing room is positive, and we have rekindled the spirit of 2010. The character of this team is evident, as those who did not play stayed back to train after the match."
De la Fuente emphasized the importance of unity within the team, stating that collective success takes precedence over individual aspirations. He mentioned, "Choosing the right companions for this journey is vital. A poor choice can lead to issues. Our team, including every member of the squad, is focused on a shared goal with enthusiasm, prioritizing the common good over personal interests."
Spain, having recently won Euro 2024, has matched Italy's record of 37 consecutive unbeaten matches. However, De la Fuente believes there is still potential for growth. He remarked, "This team continues to surprise me. The possibilities for improvement are limitless. It has been a labor of love, focusing on reaching this critical moment in peak condition."
Looking ahead to the final, De la Fuente expressed his eagerness for a potential matchup against Argentina, referencing his long-standing friendship with their coach, Scaloni. He stated, "I view finals as opportunities to enjoy rather than just to win. What lies ahead could be the cherry on top of our achievements."