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 out of two and book their place in the Euro 2024 knockout rounds.
A second-half own goal by Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori marked the difference between the two teams at the Arena AufSchalke, but Spanish coach De la Fuente felt the scoreline flattered the Azzurri.
“It's not just the victory, it's the way we did it against the reigning European champions,” De la Fuente said at a news conference. “We were superior physically, tactically and in terms of the talent of our players.
“We dominated and controlled Italy and we should have won by more with the chances we had. There is room for improvement, but we saw the potential that this Spanish team has, nullifying a team like Italy. Now we have to go step by step.”
Spain scored 21 shots to Italy's three and became the second team to advance to the round of 16 after hosts Germany.
“When the knockout rounds begin it all comes down to the small details,” De la Fuente added when asked if Spain and Germany's early progress marked them out as favorites in the tournament.
“There is no one better than Spain, but we have to be cautious. It won't be easy. The other teams will know us better, but I still say that if we work well there is no better team.”
“In my opinion, Spain has the best football in the world. But I know what this team is made of and we all know that we haven't done anything yet. We have to be prudent, humble and have respect.”
Italy's fate in the tournament will now be decided in their final group match against Croatia on Monday, although they are still well positioned to advance after beating Albania in their opener.
Nico Williams was especially astute as the Athletic Club winger helped set up Spain's goal and was awarded the UEFA Man of the Match award.
“Things worked very well and my teammates helped me a lot,” he said at a press conference. “They put me in one-on-one situations, which are my strength.
“When you go to the side for the first time, it makes it easier and gives you confidence for the rest of the game.
“I think it is my most complete performance with Spain and I hope to be able to move forward and be able to help the team in every way possible.
“I'm doing everything in my power to contribute to the team and the coach here. I've always dreamed of being involved at this level, playing in the European Championship and winning the Man of the Match award. I'm delighted.”
Williams revealed that his teammates cheered him on when he returned to the Spain locker room, where a message from his brother, Athletic teammate and Ghana international Iñaki awaited him.
“My teammates applauded me in the locker room and I want to thank them for helping me with their ability on the field,” he added.
“When I picked up my phone, the first message I saw was from my brother right away, a voicemail. He gives me unconditional support. This is for him, my parents and the Williams family. I hope my family is enjoying this as much as possible.” like me.”
Spain closes Group B on Monday against Albania in Düsseldorf. Midfielder Rodri will miss the match due to suspension after receiving his second booking of the tournament, while De la Fuente may choose to make further changes after sealing qualification.
