Torres: Talk of a fix between Spain and Croatia is disrespectful

Jun 17, 2012 7:15:00 PM

The Spain striker believes his side only have to look at Russia to see what happens if they perform complacently during their final group game against the Balkans on Monday

Fernando Torres claims that any talk about Spain fixing their final game with Croatia is "disrespectful".

A 2-2 draw or higher would see both sides qualify for the quarter-finals of Euro 2012, putting Italy out of the tournament, much akin to the 'Nordic fix' that occurred eight years ago when Sweden and Denmark similarly eliminated the Azzurri.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the match, Torres said: "To talk about this match being fixed is a lack of respect for Spain, as it is for Croatia."

"We know Croatia's strengths and how to approach the game; we think we can play our game and win but we have respect for them."

"We know their strengths and how to approach the game; we think we can play our game and win the game but we have respect for them because Russia conceded one goal and you are out."

Torres went on to reflect to the surprise developments in Group A on Saturday, which saw Russia exit the competition at the hands of Greece, and the Chelsea ace has called La Roja to not underestimate the Vatreni.

"As Russia showed, they conceded one goal and went out," he continued. "I think the Russia result is a wakeup call for all the teams that you have to win the last game.

"Even six points and you can be out; you have to be wary, especially of an opponent like Croatia."

Kick off between Spain and Croatia on Monday commences at 20:45CET.

Sign up with William Hill for a free bet up to £25
Sign up with bet365 for a free bet up to £200
Sign up to Paddy Power for £250 in free bets
Sign up today with Coral and get a £50 FREE bet - no strings attached!
Sign up today with BetVictor and get a £25 FREE BET!

play

open

Inside Goal.Com

Real Madrid are better off without Mourinho
The Portuguese's position had become untenable in recent weeks, especially after Friday's debacle in the Copa del Rey. Now he's leaving, but the club can grow stronger without him
AVB, Levy & Lewis to thrash out Tottenham plans
After missing out on a place in the Champions League, the north London side are devising a way to keep Gareth Bale at the club and attract new stars to White Hart Lane
Bayern's jinx - CL final referee Nicola Rizzoli
Goal takes a look at the career of the Italian arbiter to date following Uefa's decision to appoint the 41-year-old for Saturday's showpiece at Wembley
Cartoon: Casillas' birthday wish comes true
Goal.com cartoonist Omar Momani gives us his unique take on the football news of the day
Goal's Serie A awards for 2012-13
Goal crowns the best and worst from Italy over the course of the season