"There is no one better than us" - Spain boss Luis de La Fuente makes confident claim after strong start to Euro 2024 campaign
Spain boss Luis de La Fuente is bullish about his team's chances after their excellent start to Euro 2024. La Roja have won both their games so far and are set to top the group after a blistering start to the tournament.
Euro 2020 semi-finalists Spain were drawn against reigning champions Italy, 2018 World Cup finalists Croatia and Albania in Group B of Euro 2024. They ran out with an excellent 3-0 win over Croatia in their opening match before dominating Italy and winning 1-0 in their second game.
De La Fuente is proud of the performances of his players in the first two games, and he believes no side is better than his. He is also pleased to see his side grow into favorites for the title in the eyes of the supporters, as he said in his press conference before the Albania game (via GOAL):
“There is no one better than us and we have to continue working with that conviction. I like the fact people are starting to think we could win it, but we need to stay happy, calm, and the players need to enjoy what they do best – playing football and continuing to grow."
Spain won both their games in dominant fashion and have yet to concede a single goal, with the likes of Marc Cucurella and Dani Carvajal shining at the back. They will face Albania next knowing that they have won the group, regardless of whatever happens in that game or the Italy-Croatia one.
Spain talisman set to miss Albania game through suspension
Spanish midfield maestro Rodri will not feature in his country's last group game against Albania after picking up a suspension. The Manchester City star has been suspended for one match after picking up two yellow cards in the first two games.
Rodri was booked in the game against Croatia before receiving another yellow card for dissent against Italy to get a suspension under new laws. The 28-year-old will watch from the stands while Martin Zubimendi will likely start in his place.
Rodri enjoyed a fantastic game against Italy, setting a new record for the highest number of passes attempted in an opponent's final third while maintaining a 100% accuracy. The midfielder made all 58 of his attempted passes against the Azzurri.