ARLINGTON, Texas — Following a decisive 2-0 win over France in the semifinals, Spain’s coach Luis de la Fuente expressed his team’s soaring confidence, stating they feel “unbeatable” as they advance to the World Cup final.
A first-half penalty from Mikel Oyarzabal and a second goal from Pedro Perro in the second half secured a well-earned victory at Dallas Stadium on Tuesday.
De la Fuente also issued a challenge to their upcoming opponents in the final — either Argentina or England — asserting that his players will enter the match in New York on Sunday brimming with confidence after their dominant performance against the tournament favorites.
“We’re feeling unbeatable,” De la Fuente told reporters.
“They (France) faced the best team in the world. We have that advantage. These players have earned this, consistently showing their commitment, generosity, solidarity, and talent.
“Watching them play is a joy. Today’s match was a spectacle. What seems challenging, this team makes look effortless.”
With this victory, Spain has extended its unbeaten streak to 37 matches, equaling the record for a European nation set by Italy from 2018 to 2021.
Spain’s World Cup journey began on a lackluster note with a surprising goalless draw against Cape Verde in their opening group match.
However, in the knockout stages, they have triumphed over Portugal, Belgium, and France, conceding only one goal. De la Fuente remarked that the squad has peaked at just the right moment.
“We knew we had to gradually improve,” he said.
“Of course, we wished to win our first match, but this is a process. We planned to peak during essential moments, and now we’re in excellent shape, having reached the pinnacle of our footballing ability.”
Having reached their second World Cup final, De la Fuente and his team can now watch the upcoming semifinal between Argentina and England in Atlanta on Wednesday as they prepare to learn their next opponent.
A matchup against Argentina would pit the reigning European champions against the current World champions, while a clash against England would revive their Euro 2024 final from Germany two years ago.
“At this moment, we don’t favor one over the other,” said De la Fuente.
“Both teams have unique traits. I would be thrilled to meet Argentina because I share a close friendship with Lionel Scaloni, but I also admire England. We would welcome either opponent with open arms.”
Tuesday’s victory marked the third consecutive summer where Spain has triumphed over France in a tournament semifinal match. Lamine Yamal netted in a 2-1 win during the 2024 European Championship semifinals just before his 17th birthday, while Spain triumphed 5-4 in last year’s Nations League.
Information from The Associated Press contributed to this report.