Impressive Spain has secured top spot in Group B and a place in the last 16 of Euro 2024 but it will not be taking its foot off the gas against Albania in Dusseldorf on Monday.
While coach Luis de la Fuente has the luxury of being able to rest players for the final group game, he will also want to maintain the momentum Spain has built up.
“We’re still a long way off winning the European Championship. We haven’t yet achieved anything. Okay, we’ve won some important matches. We have wonderful prospects,” De la Fuente said after his side outclassed holders Italy.
“But football can also be very cruel. So we need to be cautious. We need to be humble. We need to show respect.”
Luis de la Fuente led Spain to the UEFA Nations League last year, its first major title since the 2012 European Championship truimph. | Photo Credit: Getty Images
Coaches are often reluctant, in public at least, to saddle their players with lofty expectations, but De la Fuente has not been slow in coming forward, describing his squad as the best in the tournament, if not the world.
On the evidence so far he has a point. Spain have looked the slickest outfit on display so far and have shortened the odds on them winning a record fourth Euros title.
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The likes of teenager Lamine Yamal, winger Nico Williams and fellow 21-year-old Pedri all produced dazzling displays against Italy while striker Alvaro Morata, defender Dani Carvajal and midfielder Rodri provide invaluable tournament experience.
With their last-16 game against a third-placed team from Group A, B, C or D not until July 2, De la Fuente may decide that resting key players against Albania could disrupt the rhythm of his side and effect their sharpness.
He will be forced into at least one change, however, with Rodri suspended after picking up yellow cards in Spain’s opening two games -- his caution against Italy coming after breaking new UEFA rules about approaching a referee.
Albania will expect no favours from Spain as it seek the unlikely win it needs to reach the knockout phase for the first time having exited in the group phase on its debut in 2016.
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A last-gasp goal secured a 2-2 draw with Croatia to keep its hopes alive and its Brazilian coach Sylvinho has instilled a sense of belief in his squad.
“What I promise to the Albanian people is that we will fight for every point,” the former Arsenal midfielder said, “Against Spain it will be difficult but we must enjoy these moments.”
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