After defeating France in the semi-finals, Spain will discover their World Cup final opponents on Wednesday night when England face Argentina. Spanish media and players have made no secret of their preference: they want Argentina.
Spanish Media Voices Preference
Juanma Castano, director of El Partidazo de COPE, said: "While I'd like to beat England tomorrow, I want Argentina in the final. I have the feeling that we've been wanting to see that match our whole lives, our whole lives. Spain vs. Argentina in a World Cup final."
Former Spain goalkeeper Santiago Canizares agreed: "It's every player's dream, I think, ever since they saw Maradona play."
Lamine Yamal Eyes Messi Showdown
Spain forward Lamine Yamal also expressed a desire to face the South Americans, particularly for the chance to play against former Barcelona star Lionel Messi. "Facing Leo Messi in a World Cup final would be fantastic. I hope so!" he said.
Yamal was instrumental in Spain's semi-final victory, winning an early penalty that Mikel Oyarzabal converted, before Pedro Porro sealed the win in the second half.
Manager Reflects on Achievement
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente said after the match: "A lot of tension builds up, it is a huge responsibility, and to be in the final of a World Cup is a luxury. It is only for the chosen ones and the rest have to try to repeat it, not in this squad, but when we started almost four years ago with an idea, a philosophy and that has brought us here. I'm so proud of this."
He added: "Today we played one of the national teams in the world, but they came up against the best team in the world. That is different. These players deserve it all because they show day after day their commitment, their generosity, their talent. It was marvellous to see them play so spectacularly today. They make the difficult look so easy. Happy, proud and what calms me now is that we start to realise where we are."
England vs Argentina Semifinal
The second semi-final between England and Argentina will take place on Wednesday, with the winner facing Spain in Sunday's final. Spain will have an extra day of rest compared to their final opponents.
