Spain success driven by hunger to improve, says De La Fuente

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Spain’s striker #19 Lamine Yamal (C) celebrates scoring the team’s first goal during the UEFA Nations League, League A – Group 3, football match between England and the Spain at Wembley Stadium in London on September 26, 2026. (Photo by Ben STANSALL / AFP) / NOT FOR MARKETING OR ADVERTISING USE / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE

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Spain can get even better despite extending their unbeaten run to 39 games, said coach Luis de la Fuente after coming from behind to beat England 3-2 at Wembley in the Nations League.

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In their first match since being crowned world champions for the second time, La Roja were hit by an English storm just before half-time as Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane put the Three Lions in front.

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But the European champions responded as Alex Baena levelled before Mikel Oyarzabal struck the winner, just as he did when the sides met in the final of Euro 2024.

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“What this generation of footballers is achieving has great merit. They are constantly striving to improve,” said De la Fuente. “The statistics speak for themselves.

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“It is incredibly difficult what Spain are doing. We will approach the next match against Croatia as if it was our last. These players always want to keep improving.”

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Spain got off to the perfect start when Lamine Yamal robbed Marc Guehi before slotting home.

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Yamal could be back in London next month as he dreams of winning the Ballon d’Or for the first time.

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“His performance was exceptional; we are lucky to have him,” added De la Fuente of the 19-year-old.

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“He plays exactly as the match demands, utilising both his own attributes and those of his teammates.”

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AFP

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