Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has described his side’s FIFA World Cup semi-final clash against France as “a final before the final”, expressing confidence that his players can overcome the former world champions and secure a place in the tournament’s final.
Spain booked their place in the last four after edging Belgium 2-1 in the quarter-finals, setting up a highly anticipated encounter with Didier Deschamps’ France.
Speaking after the victory, De la Fuente said his team is fully focused on the challenge ahead.
“It’s not an exaggeration to describe this match as a final before the final. We’re one of the teams capable of reaching the final. From now on, we are fully focused on France,” he said.
The Spain coach acknowledged France’s quality but insisted his side has every reason to believe it can progress.
“We’re aware of their immense potential, but we also know that we’re the only team to have beaten them in two semi-finals,” De la Fuente said.
“The match will be more open than ever. We will have to raise our level of play, and we’re going to give everything.”
He added that Spain’s confidence is built on the strength and depth of its squad.
“The French are in great form, and we have different playing styles. We have the greatest respect for our opponents, but we feel capable of beating any team.”
Spain will draw confidence from previous knockout victories over France as the two European heavyweights battle for a place in the FIFA World Cup final.
De la Fuente also praised midfielder Mikel Merino, whose late winner against Belgium sealed Spain’s place in the semi-finals.
The coach described Merino as a player perfectly suited to Spain’s tactical approach despite not being a regular starter.
“Merino has many virtues. He could play in any national team and any club, and for us, he is tailor-made for this team and this model. We know that whenever we need him, he’s always there,” he said.
De la Fuente admitted competition for places remains intense but said every player understands their role within the squad.
“It’s unfair that Mikel isn’t playing, but it would be just as unfair if someone else were left out. Only 11 can play at a time, and they understand the part they have to play.”
He also highlighted Merino’s versatility, describing him as a valuable asset capable of playing in several positions.
“He’s a very complete, versatile footballer. He’s played as a defensive midfielder, a number six, a number eight, a number 10 and a number nine, and he does everything well,” De la Fuente said.
“There was a moment in the match when we were thinking of bringing him on as a centre forward. We saw that the game could go differently, and it worked out well.”
