Luis de la Fuente has officially turned Spain into football’s latest overachiever. After lifting Euro 2024, plenty of people wondered if that triumph had simply been lightning in a bottle. Turns out, it was just the opening act.
After falling just short in the UEFA Nations League, Spain kept building throughout the 2026 World Cup. The tournament started with a few question marks, but by the time the final arrived, La Roja had all the answers, outclassing Argentina and lifting the nation’s second World Cup trophy.
“We were convinced we were going to do it”
An emotional De la Fuente insisted the squad never doubted it would end with the trophy in their hands.
“From emotion, pride, and happiness. It was written this way. I told them we were convinced. Thank God we’re here.”
The Spain boss also made sure to shine the spotlight on those he believes deserve it most: his players.
“The real stars are the players. I’m very proud of this generational group of human beings. It’s an honor to work with them.”
A flashback to Spain’s 2010 glory
One of the most heartfelt moments of the press conference came when De la Fuente recalled Spain’s 2010 World Cup triumph and Vicente del Bosque’s unforgettable composure.
“I remembered that moment when Iniesta scored and Vicente kept saying there was still time left. That image was very present in my mind. Staying calm was impossible, but it ended just as well.”
He also revealed the message he delivered before extra time.
“I told them we had a date with history. In a final against Argentina, any moment of carelessness could cost you the championship.”
Praise for Scaloni… and his own stars
De la Fuente also had words of admiration for Lionel Scaloni, congratulating him for everything he has accomplished with Argentina.
“I thanked him for everything he has taught me. Our football conversations, his experience… He should be proud of what he did with Argentina. He still has a lot to give to football.”
The Spanish coach once again made it clear where he stands in the never-ending debate over the world’s best player.
“Rodri is the best player in the world. We have to be patient and give him the recognition he deserves because we’re talking about a historic footballer.”
He also praised Lamine Yamal’s rapid rise and Ferran Torres’ outstanding tournament.
“Lamine had a great World Cup and he’s only going to get better. Ferran deserves everything he’s experiencing because he never stopped working.”
“We were the best team at the World Cup”
For De la Fuente, Spain’s greatest strength wasn’t just the talent on the field—it was the people wearing the shirt.
“We played against great national teams, but we were the best team in the world. This group proves you can have tremendous talent and, at the same time, be great people.”
And while Spain can finally add another star above its crest, don’t expect the celebrations to last forever.
“Today we enjoy this because we’re privileged, but after that we’ll go back to taking it one match at a time. This group still has a long road ahead.”
Argentina’s dream of back-to-back World Cups comes to an end
Argentina’s bid to defend its World Cup crown finally ran out of miracles.
After surviving one knockout scare after another, La Albiceleste found its way back to another World Cup final. This time, however, Spain was simply a level above, controlling the match and deservedly walking away with the trophy.
After the final whistle, Lionel Scaloni refused to hide behind excuses. He praised Spain’s performance, admitted injuries hurt Argentina throughout the tournament, and applauded his players for fighting until the very end.
“We have to congratulate our opponent. We’re at peace because this team competed until the very end. The injuries worked against us, but even so, we were right there fighting.”
A thank you to all of Argentina
One of the most emotional moments of Scaloni’s press conference came when he reflected on the unwavering support from Argentina’s fans throughout the tournament.
He admitted the passion shown back home became an extra source of motivation every step of the way.
“Thank you to the people for standing by the national team, for filling the streets and supporting us. To me, that was incredible, and it was an extra source of strength for this group.”
Scaloni also reminded everyone that football always offers another chance. This time the World Cup wasn’t heading back to Buenos Aires, but he made it clear the pride came from the way his team represented Argentina—even if Spain ended up throwing the biggest party.
