While Spain celebrates the conquest of the 2026 World Cup after defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time, Luis de la Fuente made it clear that, in his view, the result could have been decided much earlier. The Spanish coach especially highlighted the performance of Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez, whom he pointed out as the main reason the final remained uncertain until extra time.
"The match should have ended much earlier. Dibu's interventions made it so we didn't win sooner, but this is a final and, even with ten, they make you suffer. Winning is very hard, that's why we must value it when it is achieved. But we are prepared for everything", the coach assured after lifting the World Cup.
Throughout the match, the Argentine goalkeeper kept his team in the game with several decisive saves that prevented them from conceding during the 90 minutes. Only in the second extra time did Ferran Torres manage to break his resistance and scored the goal that gave the title to La Roja.
Beyond the match analysis, De la Fuente also took the moment to highlight the journey of a squad that, under his leadership, conquered the 2023 Nations League, the 2024 European Championship, and now the World Cup. "Especially I feel a lot of pride for this generation of footballers who have been growing with this idea. They have been faithful to the idea, always giving their best and providing us with a group example. They are a great group of footballers, with exceptional talent. Accompanying them on this journey is an honor for me", he expressed.
The coach also acknowledged the emotion he felt while reflecting on all that he has achieved with his players. "I am very emotional, after looking back and thinking about everything we have accomplished. The players have told me that we have won everything. That is wonderful", he commented.
"This generation of footballers is an example for everyone, for Spanish sport, for Spanish youth, and for the whole country. Together we are stronger, let no one doubt that", concluded the coach, who completed a historic cycle at the helm of the Spanish national team.
