Spain midfielder Santi Cazorla said on Friday he sees Sunday's Euro 2008 final against Germany as too close to call, telling reporters “there's no favourite.”
The 23-year-old Villarreal star was a surprise inclusion in the squad of coach Luis Aragones. But he has seized his chances, coming off the bench in four games to take his cap tally to six and getting two-and-three-quarter hours of action.
Cazorla says that the 3-0 destruction of Russia in the semis gave the team a great feeling – but that the squad say they know they have achieved nothing yet.
“We celebrated – but remained calm. Because we have a match to play Sunday,” he noted candidly, both feet planted firmly on the ground.
“Now we're going to stay and rest up in the hotel. We have to retain our energy.”
Although Germany are performing inconsistently the three-times champions nonetheless have a huge height advantage over their comparatively diminutive rivals.
“They will be a complicated team to play against. Germany have shown they are physical and powerful. But we will organise ourselves accordingly. We must use the same methods we have done to get this far and which have worked well and allows us to adapt to each rival. We have shown we can find solutions to beat anyone,” says Cazorla.
“But at this stage of the competition there is no favourite – it's a one-off match. Nobody can say who will win.”
The semi-final against Russia was the only match in which Cazorla did not feature but he hopes he will get on in the final.
“I am preparing myself to be ready for the call if it comes. In the group we're all aware we can play at any moment.”
- Soccer News Like
- Be the first of your friends!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
SoccerNews
Soccernews.com is news blog for soccer with comprehensive coverage of all the major leagues in Europe, as well as MLS in the United States. In addition we offer breaking news for transfers and transfer rumors, ticket sales, betting tips and offers, match previews, and in-depth editorials.
You can follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/soccernews.com or Twitter: @soccernewsfeed.