"They have a great midfield....": Spain's Gavi on opponent Portugal ahead of R16 FIFA WC clash
Arlington, July 5
Ahead of his side's FIFA World Cup round of 16 clash against Cristiano Ronaldo-led Portugal, Spanish midfielder Gavi termed their opponents as the "toughest" they are going to face so far, pointing out their great midfield line-up. He also backed his aggressive gameplay and intensity, saying that "he will never change".
The Portugal versus Spain clash in the round of 16 will witness a 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, a football institution in himself, go face-to-face with the next generation of Spanish football, of which Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, and Gavi are amongst some of the promising flag-bearers. The clash will take place on July 7, 12:30 AM IST.
Speaking ahead of the match, Gavi said on his opponents and the match, as quoted by Goal.com, "It is clear that they are the strongest opponent we have faced so far. They are a great national team with good players. I hope the team is focused on what we have to do, on the coach's plan, and that we all go together to win this tie. They have a great midfield, but we also have very good players. I think the best thing we have is such a large squad with good footballers."
Gavi also faces a lot of debate for his highly aggressive style, which often sees him get into tackles with the opposition, sometimes his own teammates (with Rodri during a training session before the tournament started). The Barcelona star said that while there are many people who do not like the type of player he is, he is not going to change.
"Perhaps many people are waiting for me because I am a player who goes into tackles hard, and perhaps many people do not like that type of player. I always consider myself a very complete player, with many facets to my game. My best qualities are my competitiveness, that intensity I have on the field. I will never change. I know there will always be people waiting," he said.
Having featured as a substitute during a 3-0 win over Austria during the round of 16, Gavi expressed his willingness to contribute in whatever capacity possible in Spain's bid for a second WC title and feels that the team is more equipped than ever for this moment, citing the unity within the set-up.
"I have said a couple of times that I'm here to help the team. I know the confidence the coach has in me, he has always had it. As I tell him, I'm there for him and for the team when he needs me. This is a World Cup, and World Cups are won by those who are together in good times and bad. We have a very large squad, and at any time, any player can come out to contribute that grain of sand," he signed off.
— ANI
Reader Comments
It's refreshing to see a player like Gavi who doesn't apologize for his style. In a sport that's becoming too soft, we need characters who play with passion. That said, he needs to be careful - a red card could cost Spain the tournament. Portugal's counter-attack with Ronaldo and Leao will punish any recklessness.
As someone who's followed Indian football for years, I can see why Gavi's intensity resonates with fans here. We love players who leave everything on the pitch. But his aggression against Rodri in training shows he needs to channel it better. Spain have the squad depth to go far if they stay disciplined. Hoping for a classic encounter!
Gavi's statement shows maturity beyond his years. The way he talks about unity in the squad is exactly what World Cup winners need - it's not just about talent. But let's not forget Portugal have the GOAT in Ronaldo, and he thrives on being doubted. This will be a cracker of a match. India's football fans are lucky to have such late-night viewing!
While I admire Gavi's confidence, I think he's underestimating Portugal. They have Bernardo Silva and Vitinha in midfield - that's world-class talent. Spain's possession game will be tested. Plus, Ronaldo's experience in knockout matches could be the difference. Rooting for Spain but it's 50-50 for me.
Love how Gavi embraces his aggressive style - it's what makes football exciting! But I worry about Spain's defense against Portugal's pace.
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