De la Fuente reviews Portugal loss ahead of World Cup clash

Spain's coach Luis de la Fuente is meticulously studying the tape of their recent UEFA Nations League defeat to Portugal. His aim is to uncover tactical insights that will help Spain overcome their Iberian rivals in their crucial World Cup last-16 clash in Dallas.

“

I've seen that match, but in the last week again I reviewed it just because we're seeking to remind ourselves of the features our opponent has.

The previous encounter saw Portugal clinch the 2025 Nations League title after a 2-2 draw, decided by a penalty shootout. De la Fuente emphasized the importance of understanding the opponent's strengths and weaknesses, stating, "The details will make a huge difference tomorrow, so the more we know the opponent the better off we will be. We want to know them very well and be very aware of their strengths, of which they have many and their weaknesses, which every team has."

De la Fuente identified Cristiano Ronaldo, whom he described as a "genius," as a significant threat. While not advocating for man-to-man marking, he stressed the need for constant awareness of Ronaldo's presence on the field, acknowledging his capacity to "change a game in the moment."

“

The details will make a huge difference tomorrow, so the more we know the opponent the better off we will be. We want to know them very well and be very aware of their strengths, of which they have many and their weaknesses, which every team has.

Comparisons have been drawn between Spain's current squad and the victorious team of 2010. De la Fuente expressed pride in these comparisons, calling the 2010 team "spectacular" and "brilliant." He highlighted that the current players are earning their recognition through hard work and possess the potential for a long and successful careers, with the ultimate goal of winning titles.

“

As a footballer he is someone you have to take care of, he can change a game in the moment.

Spain topped their group and defeated Austria in the last 32 to reach this stage. De la Fuente is focused on securing victory in the knockout format, stating, "It's a knockout game and we have to play in the best way to get victory and that's what we're going to do and not let the opponent control the game."

“

Cristiano has quality and class and in any moment he can be decisive. I would prefer if he didn't play, of course, but I think he will.