Platini rides to defence of ‘boring’ Spain
UEFA president Michel Platini has defended Euro 2012 finalists Spain against accusations that their famous ‘tiki-taka’ possession-based approach has become boring.
Spain can become the first team in history to win three consecutive major international tournaments by beating Italy in Sunday’s final in Kiev, but they have been criticised for the quality of their football.
Swashbuckling champions at Euro 2008, La Roja have presented a more pragmatic face at Euro 2012, and needed penalties to edge Portugal in the semi-finals.
But Platini, who knows what it takes to win a European Championship, having inspired France to victory on home soil in 1984, says Spain should be congratulated for the evolution in their style.
“I don’t agree at all that Spain are boring,” he said on Saturday.
“They’ve got to the final this time with a different style, based on tactical intelligence and technical ability.
“They complete a huge number of passes, although now it’s mainly in midfield, as opposed to in the final third.
“But they create a lot of opportunities, and teams should play to the strengths of their players.”
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Ray Buhagiar
Jul 1st 2012, 08:02
Spain have changed the game of football over a period of several years by investing heavily in training schools and football grounds across the country. This is now bearing fruit.
Mr Kevin Pirotta
Jun 30th 2012, 23:01
errrr David Vella whilst England supporters have every reason to be disappointed and more with their favourite
team's performance nothing could be further from the truth when it comes to those who support Italy.
JC Sullivan
Jun 30th 2012, 19:57
Spain plays beautiful football. I love their passing moves. BUT, possession doesn't score goals.
Forza Azzurri.
David Vella
Jun 30th 2012, 17:31
Calling the spaniards like that is jealousy in the making. Let's face it, who wouldn't wish that his national team or the nation he supports, be it Italy or England, could play like that? I think the spanish style is very similar to the abilities shown by brazil national teams many years back.
Simply wonderful and entertaining. So how do they expect the best football to be played then????
Please choose the reason of your report below: