Euro 2024 favorite? “No one is better” than Spain, says the coach

GELSENKIRCHEN, Germany – Luis de la Fuente said there is no better team than Spain after beating Italy 1-0 on Thursday to make it two wins from two games and book their place in the knockout stages of Euro 2024.

A second-half goal from Italian defender Riccardo Calafiore was the difference between the two teams at the Schalke Auf Stadium, but Spain coach De La Fuente felt the result pleased the Azzurri.

“It’s not just about winning, but about the way we did it against the current European champion,” De La Fuente said in a press conference. He added: “We were superior physically, tactically and in terms of the talent of our players.

“We dominated and dominated Italy and should have won with more chances than we had. There is room for improvement, but we saw the potential that the Spanish national team had, which nullified a team like Italy. Now we have to take it step by step.”

Spain fired 21 shots compared to Italy’s three, becoming the second team to qualify for the round of 16 after host Germany.

“When the knockout rounds start, it’s all about the small details,” De La Fuente added when asked if the early progress made by Spain and Germany made them favorites for the tournament.

“There is no one better than Spain, but we have to be careful. It will not be easy. Other teams will recognize us better, but I still say that if we work well, there will be no better team.”

“In my opinion, Spain has the best football in the world. But I know what this team is and we all know that we haven’t done anything yet. We have to be wise, humble and respectful.”

Italy’s fate in the tournament will now be decided in its final group match against Croatia on Monday, although it is still in a good position to qualify after beating Albania in the opening match.

Neco Williams was particularly sharp, as the Athletic Club winger assisted on Spain’s goal and picked up the UEFA Man of the Match award.

“Things went very well and my teammates helped me a lot,” he said in a press conference. “They put me in one-on-one situations, which is my forte.

“When you get past the full-back for the first time, it makes it easier and gives you confidence for the rest of the game.

“I think this is my most complete performance for Spain and I hope I can help the team as much as possible.

“I’m doing everything I can to contribute to the team and the coach here. I’ve always dreamed of participating at this level, playing in the European Championship and winning the Man of the Match award. I’m happy.”

Williams revealed that his teammates welcomed him when he returned to the dressing room in Spain, where a message was waiting for him from his brother, fellow Athletic player and Ghanaian international player, Inaki.

He added: “My teammates applauded me in the locker room and I would like to thank them for helping me improve their abilities on the field.”

“When I picked up my phone, the first message I saw was right away from my brother, a voice message. He is giving me unconditional support. This message is for him, for my dad, and for the Williams family. I hope my family enjoys this as much as I do.”

Spain concludes its competitions in Group Two on Monday, facing Albania in Dusseldorf. Midfielder Rodri will miss the match due to suspension after receiving his second warning in the tournament, while De La Fuente may choose to make more changes after ensuring qualification.