Spanish coach: World Cup final is a luxury opportunity

Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente views reaching the World Cup final as a "luxury" and is determined for his team to seize the opportunity against Argentina. "For me, it is important to be in a position to win. Every year I would sign up to reach the final, even if we lost," he stated on the eve of the championship match.

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Being in the final is a luxury. For me, it is important to be in a position to win. Every year I would sign up to reach the final, even if we lost. It is important to have the opportunity to fight for victory, and we will seize this moment, with our strengths and qualities, against an opponent with a spectacular streak.

De la Fuente anticipates a spectacular final between two top-tier teams with many similarities. He believes each side will try to steer the game in its favor, highlighting that victory will hinge on "the smallest details." The coach assured reporters about the physical condition of 19-year-old prodigy Lamine Yamal, who had missed Thursday's training, stating, "He is fine, in perfect physical shape."

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He is fine, in perfect physical condition.

Drawing parallels with his Argentinian counterpart, Lionel Scaloni, whom he considers a friend and former student, de la Fuente noted their shared concepts, values, and principles. "I think we have a lot in common, especially because Scaloni and I share the same concepts, values, and principles that drive both teams," he said.

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I think we have a lot in common, especially because Scaloni and I share the same concepts, values, and principles that drive both teams.

Seeking guidance, de la Fuente consulted Vicente del Bosque, the coach of Spain's 2010 World Cup-winning team. "He is a football sage; he has been through this situation and knows the critical moments. No one is in a better position to advise you, it is comforting to have someone like that," he added.

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He is a football sage; he has been through this situation and knows the critical moments. No one is in a better position to advise you, it is comforting to have someone like that.