|
|
Spain players 'drained' ahead of semi-final, admits Del Bosque
Jun 24, 2012 6:39:00 PM
La Roja coach thinks that a combination of semi-final appearances at three consecutive tournaments and the summer heat in Poland and Ukraine are taking their toll on his squad
Spain manager Vicente del Bosque has stated that some of his players are “drained” following their run to the Euro 2012 semi-finals.
The admission comes on the same day as one of La Roja physios lamenting the extra two days of rest afforded to, their opponents on Wednesday, Portugal.
 |
HEADING HOME? |
| 15/2 | Portugal are 15/2 to beat Spain 1-0 at Euro 2012 with William Hill |
A schedule of four games in 13 days appears to have taken its toll on the Spain squad, and Del Bosque says he will definitely factor fatigue into his starting line-up selection.
"We have two fewer days to rest than them. It is a small handicap," the 61 year-old told reporters.
"I am thinking about this problem. We have arrived very drained because the heat we suffered tonight was cruel on the players."
Despite Spain being criticised in some quarters for not fully emulating their usual impressive 'tika-taka' style, Del Bosque says playing in a more defensive way will serve his team well in their attempt to become the first team to win three major competitions on the trot.
"The truth is we did well and controlled the game," said Del Bosque. "[Goalkeeper] Iker Casillas hardly had anything to do and that speaks of the good defensive performance of the team," he said.
"If our defenders are good then we will be closer to winning the tournament because we will always create a chance."
|
| Sign up today with Ladbrokes and get a $20 welcome bonus! |
|
Related Stories
Inside Goal.Com
-
Nigerians Abroad - Year in Review: Spain & Portugal
Goal begin their annual reports on Super Eagles stars overseas by focusing on those players plying their trade on the Iberian Peninsula; Spain and Portugal
-
Top 10 all-time Champions League scorers
As the competition moves within days of its much-anticipated conclusion at Wembley, Goal profiles the most prolific players in its history
-
Like Owomoyela, like Sam
The German-Nigerian has been put in the dicey position of having to decide his international future after J Loew called him up last week
-
'Mario, you will never redeem yourself'
Mario Gotze's injury means the playmaker has now played his final game for Borussia Dortmund. In an open letter, a fan tells of his emotion at his controversial switch to Bayern
-
BVB's rise from the abyss to European contenders
BVB have recovered from teetering on the edge of bankruptcy to take their place on Europe's grandest stage, humbling their opponents on Saturday, Bayern Munich, along the way