Spain's national football team secured a 2-0 win over France in the World Cup semi-final, earning a place in the tournament's final and sending the French side home without a single shot on target until after the 80th minute.
A victory built on collective spirit
Manager Luis de la Fuente praised the squad's unity, humility and shared purpose, noting that the team's character was evident even among substitutes who stayed behind to train after the match.
He highlighted how the side neutralised France's prolific attack, which had netted 16 goals before the semi-final, and pointed out that France did not manage a shot on target until after the 80‑minute mark.
De la Fuente drew a parallel with Spain's 2010 World Cup‑winning side, saying the current group's spirit reminded him of that historic team, while also emphasizing that the players still have room to improve.
Looking ahead to the final
The coach also spoke about the upcoming final, expressing a desire to meet Argentina because of his close friendship with their manager, Lionel Scaloni, and describing the prospect of a Spain‑Argentina showdown as a potential highlight of the tournament.
He added that finals are meant to be enjoyed as much as they are to be won, underscoring the team's humility and collective ambition.
Spain have now matched Italy's record of 37 consecutive unbeaten matches, a testament to the squad's consistency, but the manager insists the journey is far from over.