Spanish football legend Juan Mata has confessed that his country fears England in the lead-up to the highly anticipated Euro 2024 final in Berlin. Mata, known for his impressive career at Chelsea and Manchester United, shared his thoughts on the BBC’s coverage of the final.
“We [Spain] are afraid,” Mata acknowledged. “Yesterday I was confident, but today I am afraid. You [England] have players who can turn a game around in an instant. While we are considered favorites, we are well aware of England’s capabilities.”
Mata emphasized the need for Spain to be cautious when going on the offensive. He explained that leaving spaces behind could lead to counterattacks, which players like Harry Kane could easily exploit. “We want to attack, but we need to be careful. If we leave spaces behind, England will punish us,” he added.
Juan Mata admits Spain is wary of England’s strengths going into the Euro 2024 final.
Harry Kane and the Three Lions are determined to bring home their first European Championship trophy.
Mata also drew a comparison between England’s Harry Kane and Spain’s Alvaro Morata, stating that both players have been criticized for their performances but are crucial in creating opportunities for their respective teams. He expressed his hope for Morata to score in the final to silence his critics.
In terms of lineup changes, England’s manager Gareth Southgate opted for Luke Shaw over Kieran Trippier, marking Shaw’s first start since February due to a hamstring injury. On the other hand, Spain made two changes to their defense, bringing in Dani Carvajal and Robin Le Normand.
Mata warns that Spain must be cautious to avoid being caught off guard by England’s potent attack.
As the Euro 2024 final approaches, the tension and excitement are palpable. Both Spain and England have proven their prowess on the field, and the match promises to be a thrilling display of football. With England seeking their first European Championship title and Spain aiming to reclaim their former glory, the stage is set for an unforgettable showdown in Berlin.