Marc Cucurella, Spain's full-back, acknowledged the criticism surrounding the team's World Cup performances as they prepare to face Austria in the round of 32 on Thursday in Los Angeles. Despite being unbeaten and topping Group H, Spain has not showcased its best form thus far in the tournament.
The squad trained at Dignity Health Sports Park, home of LA Galaxy, with players including Víctor Muñoz and Yéremy Pino participating after injuries, while Nico Williams trained separately due to a muscular injury sustained against Uruguay.
Spain's World Cup Performance Under Scrutiny
Cucurella expressed understanding towards the media's scrutiny, stating, "When there's no other football and only the national team playing, people have to talk about it. When we play well, everyone speaks highly of us. When we're not at our usual level, I understand it." He emphasized the importance of winning, saying, "I'd prefer to not play so well, and go through, rather than playing spectacularly and losing."
Spain's midfield has struggled to establish a rhythm, with manager Luis de la Fuente experimenting with different player combinations alongside Rodri and Pedri during the group stage. Cucurella noted that opponents have made it difficult for Spain to feel comfortable, but he believes the team is improving. "We're getting, little by little, to our best level. It's better that it happened in the group phase. Now in these rounds, we'll be at our best. Tomorrow you'll see a good version of the team," he added.
