SAINT-MARTIN-DE-RE, France (AP) – An over-confident Spain has learned the lessons of its shock defeat to Croatia and won’t fall into the same trap against Italy in the last 16 of the European Championship.
Defender Juanfran Torres said Thursday that Spain, already qualified for the round of 16, fell into a trap at 1-0 up.
“This small excess of confidence that we had is something that needs to change against Italy,” Torres said. “We were in control and had chances to close the game but didn’t. In a knockout game, I’m certain that we won’t have everybody in attack trying to score as happened against Croatia.
“It was a mistake by the whole team and I’m sure that it won’t happen again against Italy.”
Torres said the defeat will help Spain be better prepared for Monday’s high-profile match against Italy at the Stade de France.