Emiliano Martínez spoke about the World Cup with Argentina, the match against England and Spain.
Martínez commented on Argentina at this World Cup. Speaking to the media at a press conference, here is what he had to say:
“It’s destiny to play against them. We were prepared to play them in Qatar, we enjoy our people. Be it Spain or any opponent, playing another final is immense pride.”
He also commented on the match against England:
“I think the other day when we played against England, it was the second match I enjoyed the most in my career. Winning it once is very difficult and bringing home the fourth star, I imagine the celebrations. Enjoying it with the people and I’m visualizing and imagining it…”
On the match against Spain:
“Spain are a great national team, I know a lot of them that play in the Premier League and I follow La Liga. They have a great national team that knows our coach well. It’s not only Lamine. They are a great group, that’s why they reached the final. We have our own weapons. I hope it’s a match that the fans can remember for a long time.”
Spain are a magnificent side. They have a player in Lamine Yamal who, on his day, can be every bit as decisive as Messi. Beyond individual brilliance, their greatest strength has been their defensive organization. They’ve conceded just one goal in the tournament—a testament to how well-drilled and disciplined they are.
Argentina, on the other hand, have reasons to be concerned. Our much-haloed defence conceded eight goals in the last World Cup, and this edition our hollowed defence has already let in seven. That tells us we cannot rely on reputation alone.
Spain may not be as physically imposing as Switzerland, England, or Austria, but they are far from a soft team. Rodri, Cucurella, Laporte, and Fabián Ruiz are all capable of robust, uncompromising challenges that occasionally border on the cynical. Argentina will have to be at their creative and technical best to break them down.
I would still back Giuliano Simeone to start because his relentless work rate could help neutralize Spain’s left flank. Marc Cucurella has been outstanding throughout the tournament, and if Simeone can pin him back or limit his attacking influence, Argentina will have taken away one of Spain’s most effective weapons.