Del Bosque hails Pedro after Spain win over Uruguay

Feb 7, 2013 1:35:00 AM

The Roja boss praised the pace that the Barcelona attacker brings to his team, while insisting that their 3-1 victory was hard-fought against the resilient South Americans

Vicente del Bosque has hailed Pedro in the aftermath of Spain’s 3-1 friendly triumph over Uruguay.

A horrible error from Fernando Muslera allowed Cesc Fabregas to open the scoring and, though Christian Rodriguez pulled a goal back for the Copa America winners, Pedro’s two second-half goals sealed the victory for the World and European champions.

Del Bosque told reporters after the game: "It is clear what he brings [to the team]. He's a dynamic player and has that top speed required in football today.

"We had moments of good football, but they were well armed defensively, and it was not easy to get past them.

"With their counterattack in particular we had to be careful. We were threatened with danger."

The head coach also praised the trio of debutants - Isco, Cesar Azpilicueta and Mario Suarez after all three adapted well to the demands of international football.

He added: "They are players that are going to increase our squad numbers, who have adapted to the group without problems.”

With this summer’s Confederations Cup not too far away, Del Bosque believes the current squad’s blend of experience and youth will serve them well in the build-up to the tournament.

“We have players that have played for a while, a fairly stable squad and the important thing is that we incorporate new players without losing the spirit within the team, whether playing in a friendly or competitive game," he said.

"We know that we have to compete, but our players play in very strong leagues. Time together is important to the national team, and they know it.

"It’s been two and half months since we got together to play a game and now we have six weeks until we play against Finland. It was necessary to have contact for the preparation.”