The Real Madrid and La Roja captain is anticipating a tough battle to defend their European crown as they take on http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Italy-c2926 in their opening match of Euro 2012 on June 10.
http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Spain-c3011 qualified for Euro 2012 with an envious record in the group stages, romping to 8 straight wins in opposition to their Group C rivals. However, they now stand at the brink of their most tough task, defending their European title and making the unprecedented
three national titles in a row.
Reflecting on the situation, captain Iker Casillas admitted that winning the Euro 2008 was a difficult task and defending it is a bigger ask still. He stated that the pressure of responsibility is weighing down on them and it is difficult to live up to the
expectations of their fans not only in Spain but worldwide.
"The problem now is that we are not going to the Euros in the same way as we did four years ago," Casillas explained.
"We were known then, but we were able to gradually surprise people and went on to win the tournament. But now everyone in football knows about Spain."
Contrary to http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Iker-Casillas-c16815’ views, Euro 2008 winning coach, Luis Aragones, believes La Roja can make history in this summer’s European footballing extravaganza.
The 73-year-old stated that he is optimistic about their chances in http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Ukraine-c3032 and believes they have the potential to make it three in three top national titles.
"I was optimistic at the World Cup and I am again now," the experienced coach declared. "They are trying to become the only team to win a third consecutive tournament and it will be tremendously difficult.”
"But I think Del Bosque and the team are going to do well. We are favourites and I think we are going to retain it."
Despite the optimism surrounding the Spanish national team, http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Carles-Puyol-c8331 was ruled out from participation in mid of May.
With the absence of http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Barcelona-c38604 duo, the framework of the national team has been disturbed with Del Bosque being made to work with his second string options.
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