Today's Edition
Berlin (dpa)
Spain coach Luis de La Fuente expects the Euro 2024 final against England in Berlin on Sunday to be "a very equal game, very competitive" despite the opponents' bumpy road at the tournament so far.
"It's a final so it'll be a very equal game, very competitive. People need to understand that these games are always down to the smallest details," he said in a news conference on Saturday.
Spain have been the best team of this Euros, winning all of their games so far and eliminating hosts Germany and pre-tournament favourites France.
They became the first team to win six matches at a single Euros edition and could claim their fourth trophy - a record-breaking achievement after triumphs in 1964, 2008 and 2012.
England, meanwhile, had a difficult group stage and advanced after falling behind in all three knock-out stage games so far. Still, De la Fuente stressed: "We know there is no favourite tomorrow."
"We know if we don't play above the level we have shown so far - if we're not completely focused, if we make mistakes - we won't be able to win," he said.
Questioned about what he has asked of his players ahead of the game, the coach explained: "I'm not asking them anything special tomorrow night. I see their faces and I see their spirits. I will ask them to enjoy something they have earned. I want them to enjoy the game tomorrow."
Spain will count on youngest Euros goalscorer Lamine Yamal and top talent Nico Williams to make some magic to get the job done.
"Young players like ours learn from the experience of the older ones. The experienced players also benefit from the joy that the younger players bring," De La Fuente said.
