Soccer, Croatia, Spain, euro 2012, Vicente del Bosque
The coach of Spanish national team, Vicente del Bosque has warned his men against complacent form during the rest of the tournament. Vicente del Bosque took time to caution his players against the risks of “feeling superior” during a press conference prior to Spain’s game on Monday.
Spain will play against Croatia, who are second placed in Group C. The World Cup winners, Spain need a draw against Croatia to progress to the quarterfinal stage of Euro 2012. Vicente del Bosque understands that defeating Croatia will not be an easy job. Therefore, Vicente del Bosque wants his men on their toes for the full 90 minutes of the game.
“They have many qualities and they are showing it. If we are not on our toes, they can be dangerous. The worst thing is to think that it will be easy,” Vicente del Bosque said. “We have to exert an influence for the players to know that we stand before a difficult task, so they are under no false impressions.”
Vicente del Bosque pointed out that Russia had to face an early exit from Euro 2012 on Saturday after a surprising loss to Greece in Group A. Vicente del Bosque wants his men to take lesson from Russia’s exit.
“Football permanently teaches lessons,” Vicente del Bosque said. “We have time to think about what might happen to us.”
Russia entered Euro 2012 with a strong squad that looked destined to go deep into the tournament.
“Confidence is never good, feeling superior is dangerous,” Vicente del Bosque advised. “In the face of recent praise we have to shield ourselves and prepare for the difficulties that lie ahead.”
Football analysts have pointed out that a 2-1 draw between Spain and Croatia on Monday guarantees the entry of both teams into the quarterfinals. If such results are produced Italy will be heading home regardless of whatever results the Azzurri post against Ireland.
“I would never understand agreeing with anyone on a result, and I'm sure Croatia think the same,” Vicente del Bosque said.
However, Vicente del Bosque did admit that he could not overwrite the possibility of such results. During the 2010 World Cup Chile settled for a 2-1 loss to Spain. The result helped both sides in progressing to the next stage of the tournament at the World Cup.
“Chile declined to attack, to seek a draw. Those are situations within a match. It was good for them,” Vicente del Bosque said. “I believe in fair play in football.”
