Xavi: Spain must stay united and control emotions in World Cup final vs Argentina

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Hupu, July 19 – Xavi has stated in an interview with the Daily Mail that Luis de la Fuente's team must "play as a unit" and "control their emotions" in the World Cup final against Argentina.

The European champions are just one win away from lifting the World Cup for the first time since 2010. They advanced to the final at MetLife Stadium on Sunday after a dominant semi-final performance against France.

However, standing in Spain's way is Argentina, led by Messi. On Wednesday night, Argentina staged a dramatic comeback from behind to beat England 2-1. Now, they aim to become the first team since their arch-rivals Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup.

The match in New Jersey is set to be captivating. Spain have conceded just one goal in seven matches in this tournament, so they will enter the final as slight favorites.

Speaking to the Daily Mail at a FIFA Legends event in New York on Friday, Xavi – a key member of Spain's 2010 World Cup-winning squad – discussed what the national team needs to do to beat Messi and the defending champions.

"I think they need to keep doing what they've been doing throughout the tournament, which is playing as a unit," said the former Barcelona midfielder. "I think many players are at the top level, like Pau Cubarsí, Dani Olmo, Lamine Yamal, Rodri, and Unai Simón."

"We also have excellent full-backs like Pedro Porro and Marc Cucurella... We are a top team with everything we need."

When asked about Spain's approach on Sunday, he added: "Stay calm, control the tempo of the game, control your emotions. It's a final... and you must remain united. They've been doing brilliantly, and all of Spain is proud of them."

Under De la Fuente, Spain has once again become a major force in world football. They won their first title in 12 years at Euro 2024 and eliminated pre-tournament favorites France on their way to another final this summer.

Even against a team featuring Messi – widely regarded by many as the greatest player of all time and Xavi's former Barcelona teammate – Spain will be confident in adding another star to their crest.

After all, Spain also has their own prodigy: teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, whom many believe will succeed Messi's legendary status.

Xavi believes Spain has "everything" needed to win Sunday's final, but he acknowledged that Argentina knows how to win World Cups.

"When they won the European Championship two years ago, they realized they could compete with any team," he said.

"So now, they are ready. They have experience and know how to compete in big tournaments. They have everything to win this final."

"But standing in front of us is Argentina, and they already know how to win at this level."

Source: Daily Mail

International Football News

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Emotions really need to be controlled

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