Former Spain international Azpilicueta, previewing Spain's FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match against Portugal, believes the team can control the tempo of the game.
Speaking on Radio Marca's FIFA World Cup coverage, the retired former international, now based in Manchester as a pundit, is experiencing this tournament from a different vantage point. He believes Spain are on an upward trajectory: "It's not about how you start, but how you finish. This team is growing as the tournament progresses, and now is the moment of truth."
A major focus of the interview was Oyarzabal, who has scored four goals in four matches and become a key attacking force under Luis de la Fuente. Azpilicueta did not hide his admiration for the Real Sociedad forward: "I'm very happy for Mikel. He has proven his importance to this team; strikers live by scoring goals. I believe he will deliver many more outstanding performances." He also particularly praised Oyarzabal's positioning in the box: "The way he paused and then called for the return pass when he scored the first goal showed pure striker's instinct."
Azpilicueta also commented on Yamal, who rediscovered his best form in Spain's most recent match. "Yamal is gradually adapting to the pace of play, and you can see that he is growing into this tournament. He can break defensive lines, draw defenders, and win matches." He highlighted Yamal's technical range: "His skillset is expansive, and he continues to develop, making him stronger with each game."
Beyond their attacking talent, the Navarre-born defender emphasized another hallmark of Luis de la Fuente's side: defensive solidity. "One thing I really appreciate about this national team is that they haven't conceded a goal yet. This defensive strength is crucial; the fewer chances opponents create, the better your odds in the FIFA World Cup."
On the Portugal match, Azpilicueta warned against complacency, recalling Spain's Qatar World Cup experience: a convincing opening victory followed by elimination in the Round of 16. "What you did before doesn't matter. Every match is different. Portugal will be highly motivated against Spain, and so will Spain." Yet his message remained optimistic: "I believe our players can control the pace and manage the situation."
Azpilicueta also assessed the threat posed by Cristiano Ronaldo, who, at 41, remains central to Portugal's team. "Ronaldo and Messi are made of special material. They have performed at the highest level for so many years and in so many matches. You see how they prepare and their drive to keep scoring." He placed Modrić in the same category: a group of legends refusing to leave the world stage.
Azpilicueta considers France one of the tournament's strongest teams, particularly in attack, but does not dismiss Spain's title chances: "We are European champions. Favorites often start strongly but are eliminated early. Every knockout match is a new competition, but I see Spain improving and, naturally, there is a chance."
Finally, the former defender acknowledged that he misses the daily locker room experience but has embraced his new role as a pundit. "I miss putting on my boots, but every stage of life has its meaning. During this World Cup, I'm experiencing punditry—learning, enjoying, and seeing football from a fresh perspective."
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batacdetyz
1
Spain will control nothing Neves Vitinha too good