Spain’s preparations for the 2016 Euros hit a stumbling block as Vicente Del Bosque’s men were held to a second consecutive draw in the international break — this time by Romania.
In fact, the Spaniards failed to make any impression on the match as the Romanians held on determinedly to a 0-0 draw in Cluj on Sunday. Spain head coach Vicente Del Bosque expressed his frustration at his side’s inability to register a win during the international break.
“I’m not happy at all following two draws from my team,” Del Bosque was quoted as saying by Goal.com. “We lacked everything, in all areas. I tried to win the game by making changes, but it did not change anything. Romania have played a very good match. They did not let us play our football, they are a good side.”
Atletico Madrid and Spain playmaker Koke also expressed his frustration with the performance on Sunday. He said, “The feeling we have is one of annoyance because we did not win. But we will improve in the tournament. We are a good group and we’ll be fine.”
Del Bosque has some difficult choices ahead of Euro 2016
The most obvious selection dilemma Del Bosque has is in the goalkeeping department, where the former Real Madrid coach has to choose between goalkeepers Iker Casillas and David De Gea.
The former has been Spain’s No.1 for more than 15 years now and is a widely respected figure across Spain. Meanwhile, De Gea has been consistently brilliant for Manchester United over the past three years.
Another decision that Del Bosque has to make is at the other end of the pitch. Having scored just one goal in 10 national team appearances, Diego Costa is not an obvious first choice for Spain. Other options for the 65-year-old include Artiz Aduriz — who scored against Italy last week — and Alvaro Morata.
However, Aduriz is 35 years old and may not be able to play every three days, as is required in tournaments like the Euros. Morata has also failed to impress in national colours, having scored just once in eight appearances. Another possible option available to Del Bosque is playing Cesc Fabregas as a false 9, something which he has done quite effectively in the past.
