It is arguably the most important match in Spanish football since the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ final. La Roja, who 16 years ago were crowned champions, are looking to return to the decider. To get there, in the form of Russia 2018 winners and Qatar 2022 runners-up France.
The build-up to the Texas-sized semi-final showdown at Dallas Stadium has been immense, so you could understand it if, on the eve of it, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente and young superstar Lamine Yamal might be feeling a little on edge. But you’d be wrong.
“We know how to cope with adversity. And as for pressure, well, I don’t feel it,” said Yamal during Monday’s pre-match press conference. “You yourselves say I’m not at my best, so you shouldn’t expect anything from me, but I’m sure tomorrow is going to be a special day.
“It’s the most important match I’m ever going to play. And I’m glad to have made it this far. We’re all really excited, and me most of all. It’s undoubtedly the most important match I’m ever going to play.”
A similar message was broadcast by his coach, who was the epitome of poise in the press conference – a trait that has no doubt trickled down to a team that struck late to win in the and then again against .
“Playing in the World Cup semi-final – after all the World Cups I’ve watched on the telly – now we’re the ones in the spotlight,” said De la Fuente. “We’ve never shirked the responsibility that this entails. We’ve always played with that responsibility and we know what we represent, but we’ve also enjoyed something as wonderful and important as playing football on these stages. It’s a question of striking a balance, but we mustn’t let the responsibility make us nervous.”
The serenity with which De la Fuente spoke evoked memories of that title-winning campaign in South Africa, when Vicente del Bosque affectionately labeled his squad “football romantics”. The phrase resonates strongly with the current Spain boss, who identifies with what Iker Casillas, Xavi, Andres Iniesta, David Villa and others felt 16 years ago.
“I’m very romantic; I like Julio Iglesias… how could I not be romantic?” said De la Fuente with a smile. “I tell [the players] to enjoy what they have today. You’re privileged. We’re privileged. We’re going to play football and we have exceptional footballing potential. Let’s do what we know how to do. That’s the pressure I put on them – look how soft I am – so that they can fulfil their full footballing potential.”
Sources: FIFA Official
