Luis de la Fuente: “We have the opportunity to win this tournament”

Luis de la Fuente congratulated his side on reaching the Euro 2024 semi-finals after beating hosts Germany in extra time, stressing that the team has a chance of winning the competition.

“This is a historic evening. This is a moment to appreciate what we have achieved and to enjoy it. We will try to improve physically in the coming days. I am sure that my players will be ready for the semi-finals. I am playing at a very high level,” the Spanish coach began, concluding: “My players are insatiable, I have known them for many years. We have the opportunity to win this tournament.

Mikel Merino scored the goal that helped Spain reach the semi-finals of the European Championship. Speaking at the end, the Real Sociedad player explained how he felt as soon as he put the ball into the German net. “As soon as I saw Dani Olmo, I knew that with such quality he could make a great cross. I believed in him, ran after Rüdiger and prepared a header. The rest is history. It was sensational to see my team – my teammates running at me. I scored a goal, but we are a family. The whole team is responsible for this. The most important thing is the mentality. We are very close to achieving something important and we must continue to work 100%. Prepared for the next game.”

Dani Olmo, who came on early after Pedri’s injury, was named man of the match and said it had already been his “best day” playing for Roja. “It was a very difficult game. We went into extra time and deserved to win. I don’t remember the goal very well. I had space, I crossed and Mikel [Merino] He showed himself to be a great finisher. This is probably my best day with the national team.”