new
Euro 2016 >

Low: Spain have a top-class team

Saturday, June 18, 2016 Source: Marca.com

Joachim Low has been singing Spain's praises, not only for the way they destroyed Turkey on Friday night but for their performance over the past seven or eight years, although it's not something the German coach will try to replicate.

He noted that the players' great versatility allows them to play in this extraordinary manner.

"Spain have a top-class team and that's always been the case," he said during a press conference.

"Many teams in Spain are flexible, which defines Vicente Del Bosque's selection, with Barcelona playing in one way while Real Madrid have another style."

Low said this has led to the country attracting and nourishing world-class players like Lionel Messi, as well as the excellence of leading Spanish clubs today, which is reflected both in the excitement of La Liga and their dominance in the Champions League.

The 56-year-old turned his attention to his own team's performance as the reigning world champions have come under fire for their weaknesses in defence and also in attack, especially after being held to a goalless draw by Poland.

There could be changes for the Northern Ireland game although, thankfully, Low can rely on Jerome Boateng who is fit to play after bruising his hip in the last match.

Whilst one of the favourites to win Euro 2016 are causing despair, the commentators are full of praise for Spain, who look unstoppable.

They were lining up to join in the congratulations, including former Spain international Gaizka Mendieta who was a guest on ZDF television alongside Oliver Kahn.

The former German goalkeeper's comments on the most outstanding performances in Spain's victory led presenter Oliver Welke to joke that "we are all fans of Spain here."

They now lead Group D with a draw against Croatia on Tuesday being enough to keep them on top while Germany and Poland both have four points in Group C.

  • Standings
    • A
    • B
    • C
    • D
    • E
    • F
  • Top Scorers
Ranking Player Country GS (PEN)
Top 3 Teams of the Past EUROs
  • Year
  • Winners
  • Runner-up