Former Spain coach Julen Lopetegui believes trying to press Spain sounds simple on paper but is one of the toughest challenges in football, as La Roja prepare to face Argentina in the FIFA World Cup final.
Lopetegui, who guided Spain to a famous 6-1 victory over Argentina in a 2018 friendly, said comparisons between that match and Sunday’s final are meaningless.
“That was a brilliant performance, but this is completely different. We’re talking about a World Cup final, not a friendly.”
After watching Spain shut down France’s dangerous attack in the semi-finals, Lopetegui explained why pressing Luis de la Fuente’s side is so difficult.
“The theory is simple, but pressing Spain isn’t straightforward. You have to press multiple passing options at the right moment, in the right space, and make the right decisions.”
He added that Spain’s challenge goes beyond their tactical system, with players capable of escaping pressure through individual quality.
“They don’t just rely on collective play. They have players who can get out of difficult situations on their own, making it even harder to stop them.”
Lopetegui also praised Spain’s composure in building attacks from the back, saying their defenders and goalkeeper can turn an opponent’s high press into an attacking opportunity.
Despite the tactical battle, he believes the final will ultimately be decided by mentality.
“Both teams are extremely competitive. When they’re pushed to the limit, they usually respond.”
He highlighted Argentina’s resilience throughout the knockout stage and Spain’s unwavering belief in their possession-based style, while noting Lionel Messi has evolved into a player who creates more for his teammates.
Lopetegui also pointed out that Spain’s attacking threat comes from every area of the pitch.
“It’s not just the forwards who attack—it’s the whole team. And in the same way, the whole team defends.”
With two contrasting but equally resilient footballing giants set to meet, Lopetegui expects a fascinating tactical battle where the smallest detail could decide the World Cup title.
