Spain’s coach Luis de la Fuente expressed a measured mix of satisfaction and concern after the Euro 2024 qualifier in Glasgow ended 2-0 to Scotland. He noted that the game unfolded in a way that matched the plan, describing it as a difficult and intricate contest in which the team carried out the framework they had prepared. He spoke about the overall performance in the post-match press conference, emphasizing how the tactical plan shaped the encounter while acknowledging that the final result did not align with his hopes.
The performance of the Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay featured prominently, with two goals contributing to the Scottish advantage. De la Fuente highlighted the exactness of the planned approach, thanking the players for executing what was worked on in preparation. He admitted that the execution was satisfying in parts but that the outcome left room for improvement. His tactical reasoning centered on exploiting the width of the wide players and encouraging center players to search for spaces, deliver shots, and move through gaps created by the defense, noting that different finishing moments could have altered the course of the game.
De la Fuente, who had taken charge of the senior team for a second time after his initial win against Norway (3-0), acknowledged that certain aspects needed refinement. Nevertheless, he was pleased with the team’s defensive discipline, citing the Scots’ repeated challenges as evidence of solid organization on that end. The coach observed that Scotland repeatedly found ways to navigate Spain’s defense, reinforcing the impression that the match was tightly contested and tactically rich.
Several changes were made by the Spanish side, with up to eight modifications introduced compared to the starting XI used against Norway in Malaga. When questioned whether these changes impacted the performance, the coach argued that the result did not stem from alterations in personnel. He explained a preference for refreshing the lineup across back-to-back matches to sustain energy and focus. He also praised Scotland’s approach, describing it as highly smart defensively and admirably serious, directing the flow of the game toward the areas they preferred to control.
Regarding the match-day atmosphere at Hampden Park, where the environment often rises to a fever pitch, de la Fuente commented on the remarkable support and the intense setting. He noted that while the ambiance is electric, it does not intimidate the players, who already face challenging situations on the pitch, and that the home ground’s intensity is a factor both teams must manage. The overall takeaway from the manager was a belief in tangible progress while recognizing that further work is required to translate defensive solidity into a more decisive offensive output.