Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente is proud of his team for their display in a resounding 4-1 victory over Switzerland, despite playing a vast majority of the game with only 10 men, Soccernet.football reports.
La Roja headed into their match against Switzerland off the back of a disappointing goalless draw with Serbia but the Euro 2024 champions were back to their mesmerizing best at the Stade de Geneve in Carouge.
Fabian Ruiz and Joselu put Spain two goals up before a quarter of the match was played. Robin Le Normand’s sending off in the 20th minute allowed the Swiss to get a foothold in the game with Zeki Amdouni pulling a goal back before halftime.
However, despite their man disadvantage, Spain added two more goals in the second half through Ruiz and Ferran Torres in the 77th and 80th minutes respectively to put the game beyond any doubt.
De la Fuente was especially impressed with how his players dug deep after going down to 10 men, commending them for their resilient performance.
“I feel like we are doing something important for a country, that people identify with this group of players,” De la Fuente said after the game.
“We grow from humility and sacrifice as a team. I am proud of this group of players, which never ceases to surprise me.
“If there’s one thing I like to boast about, it’s the pride I’ve always felt for this team. When these circumstances happen, one feels more proud, but to highlight a group of players that is a team, not a national team.
“This team has plenty of self-esteem and humility because what they are doing is historic.
“With 10 men, we have been able to interpret the game in a masterful way. I am very proud of this team and every day we see that we continue to grow and that we can improve.”
