Butragueno believes Spain will end 44 years of hurt
Spanish striking legend Emilio Butragueno, who was on the bench when his country last made it to a major final - at the European Championships in 1984 - thinks that Fernando Torres can win the Euro 2008 Final against Germany on Sunday, without the help of his forward partner, David Villa, who is injured.
The Spanish have not won a trophy for 44 years - since 1964 - but Butraguena, nicknamed 'the vulture' as a Real Madrid forward, believes that this will be their year, especially after they showed steely nerve to defeat World Cup winners Italy on penalties in the quarter-final.
The ambassador for Euro 2008 statistics sponsor, Castrol, said: "Spain was very close before but when the game was on the line we were unable to be inspired and to defeat our opponents.
"This time in that nail-biting game against Italy our players were inspired and [captain Iker] Casillas saved two penalites. I think that game has represented a turning point for our national team.
"I'm very happy to say Spain is going to play a final after 24 years. I was on the bench in France in 1984 and it was difficult because France had Michel Platini and were the hosts and we lost 2-0.
"I hope this game will be different and our team will continue playing at the same level they did against Russia in the second half."
The Spanish will be unable to call upon the services of tournament leading scorer David Villa, however, as he is out with an injury. But 'the vulture' is sure that Spain can still reign supreme.
He continued: "There is no doubt that Villa has been one of the men of the tournament, he has played a key role for Spain. But I think the champion team has to able to cope with this kind of situation. The second half against Russia Villa wasn't on the field and the performance of the team was even stronger. {Manager Luis] Aragones has a great group and I'm sure he'll choose the right players.
"Withouth Villa, Torres will have to shoulder more responsibility but I think he's ready to do it. His season in England has been outstanding and this is a great opportunity to show everybody what kind of player he is. I trust him. I think he's an extradordinary player and I thinkhe can be one of the key players to win Spain the title.
"We shouldn't miss the boat, we should win. It would be very important for our country and our football. I hope Spain will rise to the occasion.
"I think Spain is ready for the victory and they are playing beautifully. It's a great chance to get a title after 44 years of waiting."
Comments
Add a comment
Be the first to comment on this
If you are a Gambling.com member, please login at the top left of this page.
If you are not a Gambling.com member, please complete our sign up form—membership is free and it takes just a minute or two to sign up.