Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has expressed strong confidence that his team can overcome France when both European heavyweights clash in the semi-finals in Dallas on Wednesday.
The Spanish coach heads into the encounter in high spirits after guiding his side to a 2-1 victory over Belgium in the quarter-finals, insisting his players have what it takes to secure another win over the French.
“The expectations are very high for the next game … we’re very well aware of the potential of our opponent, but we’re very clear that we’re able to beat France,” he said.
“We had semi-finals against them and were successful. The game will be very demanding and energetic.
“We’ll need the best version of ourselves, and we’ll leave everything on the pitch.”
Although Spain are viewed by many as slight underdogs, De la Fuente believes his squad can draw confidence from recent victories over France, having defeated them in the semi-finals of the 2024 European Championship and last year’s Nations League.
“It’s going to be a fantastic game; this is the final before the final- two of the best teams in this tournament,” he added.
“We have to start with respecting our opponent; we’re going to face a giant of football, but we’re capable of winning. I have the conviction.
“I’m convinced, and I trust and have full confidence in my players, our team and our potential.”
