Former Spain manager Vicente del Bosque has cautioned the national side against complacency heading into Monday’s World Cup final, calling Argentina a “real nuisance” and urging his compatriots to stay alert.
Del Bosque, who guided Spain to their only World Cup title in 2010 with a 1-0 extra-time win over the Netherlands in South Africa, gave the warning in an interview with El Pais published on Saturday (18 July).
“Argentina are a tough team to play against,” he said. “They know exactly what they need to do.”
He pointed to Argentina’s semi-final comeback against England as proof of their pedigree, having gone behind before fighting back to win 2-1 and book their place in the final.
Del Bosque said he expected Spain to edge the contest but stressed the danger Argentina pose. “I see the final as favouring Spain, but they need to be wary of the Argentines,” he said, citing their difficulty as opponents and tournament experience.
The 75-year-old also had praise for Spain’s campaign so far, saying their matches had unfolded largely on their own terms, with the side showing control and composure throughout.
Spain face Argentina in the World Cup final at New York New Jersey Stadium on Monday.
