​​De la Fuente: "We Faced One of the Best Teams in the World, But They Faced the Best Team"

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Time: 15-07-2026 03:00 Wednesday

July 15 – Spain defeated France in the semi-final to reach the World Cup final for the second time in their history. After the match, Spain manager Luis de la Fuente spoke on the pitch, visibly emotional and proud of his team's loyalty and talent.

Q: How are you feeling, coach?

De la Fuente: It's hard to put into words right now. I think the overriding feeling is happiness and pride – I've said it time and again: it's an honour to coach such a remarkable group of players. And we still want more. There's one step left, and we'll give everything to take it.

Q: You looked quite serious during the celebrations. I imagine you'll let loose in the dressing room?

De la Fuente: Yes, probably. There's been so much pressure. Reaching a World Cup final is a huge responsibility and a privilege. It's something only the chosen few get to experience.

It takes time to process what's happened. When we started this journey – not just this camp, but nearly four years ago – we had a clear philosophy. We've stayed completely loyal to it, and that loyalty has brought us here. That's why I feel immense pride – for that conviction.

Q: Tonight, you neutralised a French side widely considered the big favourites. You barely gave their attack any room.

De la Fuente: Exactly. Tonight we faced one of the best teams in the world. But they faced the best team in the world.

That's the difference. It's a step up. These players deserve everything – they prove it every day: their commitment, their selflessness, their unity, their talent.

It's a joy to watch them play. They made something extremely difficult look simple. I'll say it again: pride, happiness. Now I'm calming down and starting to realise where we stand.

Q: Everyone in Spain will be watching tonight. What's your message to the fans?

De la Fuente: Deep empathy and sincere gratitude. Thank you for all the love, encouragement, and strength you've given us. Being Spanish is a source of pride, and being the link that unites the fans and the whole country is even more so. Let's stay united – because when we stand together, we can achieve great things.

Source: YouTube