Spain are not about to change the way they play because some believe their possession-based style makes them boring to watch, midfielder Xabi Alonso said.
The world and European champions’ 2-0 defeat of France in Saturday’s Euro 2012 quarter-final prompted criticism in Italian and other media that they lack attacking ambition, while some neutral fans at the game in Donetsk whistled and booed the Spanish for failing to provide a more entertaining spectacle.
«That’s their opinion and just as valid as any other,» Alonso told a news conference at Spain’s Polish training base as they prepare for Wednesday’s last-four clash with Portugal back at the Donbass Arena.
«Whatever people say I don’t think we are going to change,» added the 30-year-old, who netted both goals against the French on his 100th international appearance.
«I am pretty sure that most of the fans are enjoying great football games and great football teams.
«I think that’s great not just for the present but also for the future of this tournament.»
Alonso, flanked by team mate Cesc Fabregas, said Spain, Portugal and other two teams through to the semi-finals, Germany and Italy, were all sides that liked to keep the ball, control games and look to attack at every opportunity.
«The teams that are there deserve it,» he said, adding that Spain did not have a specific plan to counter the threat of his Real Madrid team mate and Portuguese captain Cristiano Ronaldo.
«We always play with the same idea whoever the opponent. In this case, we will analyse Cristiano’s game and there may be small adjustments but we will try to play as a team because that’s the best way to stop a player.»
buenosairesherald.com