Although Spain controlled much of the game, they struggled to convert their pressure into goals against a well-organized Cape Verde team that defended resolutely, stifling the European champions’ rhythm in the attacking third.
“A squad on a run of over 30 matches without defeat can’t afford to have doubts,” De la Fuente remarked during a press conference, highlighting Spain’s remarkable consistency over the past three years.
“The answer lies in maintaining our current strategy and continuing to refine our approach, but the truth is we created numerous opportunities, yet we lacked the necessary freshness in these encounters,” he explained.
“They were very well structured; they defended collectively, making it challenging to find openings.”
De la Fuente acknowledged that Spain had indeed missed sharpness and fluidity, but he affirmed that the team’s intent to attack was clear.
“We struggled with movement and freshness, but when the ball just doesn’t cooperate, it doesn’t cooperate,” he commented.
“We had attempts on goal, created opportunities, and aimed to clinch the match with an early goal. We understand how challenging it is to win here.”
As the match concluded, Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams were both on the field after being brought in during the latter stages, with De la Fuente carefully managing their return from hamstring injuries.
“Our goal is to gradually integrate them into the squad and provide them with playing time,” he said.
“I am confident they will continue to improve, just as they did against Saudi Arabia, in upcoming matches.”
