World Cup 2010

Vicente Del Bosque: Argentina Victory A Good Test For Spain

The experienced boss was glad to see his side were pushed to the limit in their hard-fought victory...

Nov 15, 2009 1:46:43 PM

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Vicente del Bosque, Spain (PA)

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Vicente Del Bosque

Spain coach Vicente del Bosque was pleased with what he deemed to be a ‘good test’ for his players, as they overcame Argentina 2-1 at the Vicente Calderon in Saturday’s international friendly encounter.

Xabi Alonso had given La Furia Roja the lead before Lionel Messi equalised for the visitors from the spot. However, Alonso sealed the win in the 86th minute to give the European champions a deserved result.

Speaking to journalists after the game, Del Bosque commented that the match was as he expected, saying, “It was a good test for Spain. It was not a surprise. We expected a tough match and an aggressive encounter.

“This is not criticism but a compliment to Argentina – they do not understand the concept of a friendly, and for this I am happy.”

The former Real Madrid coach also took time to praise goalkeeper Iker Casillas, who earned his 100th cap against the South Americans, and del Bosque admitted it was a proud moment for him.

He added, “I watched Iker [Casillas] as a kid ten years ago and it is a joy for those who watched him play. For me it is an honour.”

The victory allowed La Furia Roja to stretch their current winning streak to seven successive games following the Confederation Cup semi-final loss to the United States.

Paul Macdonald, Goal.com