Spain’s major sports newspapers are convinced that football will not return home, and England is destined to suffer another devastating defeat in tonight’s Euro 2024 final.
La Roja has swept everything before on their way to tonight’s main event in Berlin, and they will start as clear favourites.
Spain has won all six of their matches in the tournament thus far, defeating hosts Germany and pre-tournament favorites France in the knockout rounds.
In contrast, England coughed and spluttered their way to a second consecutive European Championship final. They had to overcome Slovakia in the closing moments to avoid a humiliating loss, and they also defeated Switzerland and the Netherlands after falling behind.
Several Spanish media sites seem to think that their name is already on the trophy due to their poor record; one website even made fun of the England captain.
‘Kane never wins anything’ read one particular headline, referencing the Bayern Munich striker’s career-long trophy drought.
Barcelona-based sport, meanwhile, opted to focus there being ”no chemistry’ in attack’ which may well come back to haunt them given the way the likes of Bukayo Saka have improved with each passing match.
Marca headlines their coverage of the championship match with “And for the fourth,” highlighting Spain’s attempt to add to their victories in the European Championship from 1964, 2008, and 2012.
In contrast, De la Fuente stated at his pre-game press conference that he would not consider the possibility that the championship would be inevitable.
‘There are no favourites,’ he said. ‘It’s an even match-up, just as our previous knockout games were. If we are not above the level we displayed in those games, we won’t have a chance of winning – and the same if we make mistakes.
‘It’s fantastic to be here and we are excited to be in the final. It’s one of the biggest sporting achievements there is. We are relaxed and looking forward to playing.
‘Sunday will be a complicated game against a great team, between the best two teams, that’s why we are in the final.
‘These matches, which are so even, are typically determined by the minor details. The side that makes the fewest mistakes will have the best chance of winning.’