Spain's victory over hosts Germany at the Euro 2024 quarterfinals has left coach Luis de la Fuente in awe of his team's historic achievement. Mikel Merino's late goal secured a dramatic win for Spain, marking the first time they have beaten hosts at a major tournament in 10 attempts.
De la Fuente expressed his pride in the team's performance, highlighting their ambition and relentless spirit. He emphasized the significance of the milestone, noting that it was the first time Spain had secured five consecutive wins at the Euros or a World Cup.
Looking ahead to the semifinal clash against France, De la Fuente conveyed his team's determination to continue their impressive run and potentially reach the final in Berlin on July 14.
Challenges Faced and Resilience Shown
Despite facing adversity during the match, with Germany equalizing late in normal time, Spain showcased resilience and composure to emerge victorious. De la Fuente defended his tactical decisions, emphasizing the importance of being clinical in the final third and adapting to the game's demands.
The intense encounter saw multiple bookings and a red card, underscoring the competitive nature of the game. De la Fuente remained unfazed by the physicality, attributing it to the nature of football and the need for referees to manage such situations.
Merino's Memorable Moment
Mikel Merino, the hero of the match with his decisive goal, described the significance of his winning strike as one of the best moments in his career. His celebration, paying homage to his father's past exploits at the same stadium, added a personal touch to the historic victory.
Reflecting on the team's journey and the challenges they overcame, Merino expressed gratitude for his teammates' efforts and highlighted the reward of perseverance in the face of setbacks.
Injuries and Suspensions
Spain's triumph came at a cost, with Pedri sustaining a knee injury and Dani Carvajal receiving a suspension. Additionally, Robin Le Normand will miss the semifinal due to accumulated bookings, posing challenges for Spain's defensive lineup.
As Spain prepares to face France in the semifinal, the team's unity, determination, and hunger for success stand as pillars of their Euro 2024 campaign.
