Julen Lopetegui has warned his players that Saturday’s European Under-21 Championship semi-final will be their toughest game yet.
The Spain Under-21 boss has seen his side progress to the last four without conceding a goal, yet feels the game against Norway in Netanya is far from a foregone conclusion, and in comments made to UEFA.com went on to praise Tor Ole Skullerud’s team.
“For me, this will be the hardest match of the tournament. We're in the semi-finals of a European Championship and have the chance to get to the final, but so do Norway. “We have as much respect for Norway as for Italy or any other team. They're a complete team in every aspect, with great tactical discipline, and have been reinforced by four players from their national team.
“They have players with different styles who combine well together. Their attacking play is very good and they defend with great intensity and real unity – they're a proper team,” maintained Lopetegui.
Lopetegui said he is hopeful midfielder Ignacio Camacho will recover from the ankle injury he suffered against the Netherlands.
“He's got a chance of being fit and that's what we're working towards," said the Coach, who otherwise has no injury doubts.