Spain coach Luis Aragones believes that Russia will hold an advantage ahead of their Euro 2008 semi-final due to the timing of their domestic season...
»Comments Print This Story Send To A Friend Contact Us galleria zoom The Russians progressed with a remarkable 3-1 extra time win over tournament favourites the Netherlands and Aragones believes they have a distinct advantage due to the timing of their season - which begun at the start of the year - as opposed to the rest of Europe, who have been playing since August.
Despite having overwhelmed them 4-1 in their opening group game, Aragones knows it will be a different proposition altogether this time around. "It is the best moment for Russian football, because this is the moment of the season they are at their best," explained Luis.
"The second half of matches is about speed and we are going to have it tough. We won 4-1 last time but it will be difficult because they have a really good team."
Having made it through off the back of Iker Casillas' penalty-saving heroics following an underwhelming 0-0 stalemate, Aragones has revealed he was certain his keeper would come through for him due to the preparations he made.
"I was sure he was going to stop penalties because he has a goalkeeper trainer that tells me they watch where the rivals take penalties," revealed the coach. "They were looking at DVDs and looking at these things."
The man himself, who made a brilliant save from Daniele De Rossi's penalty and another from Antonio Di Natale to all-but win the game for Spain, does not believe Spain's 4-1 win over Russia will almost serve as a direct path to the final this time around.
"We know they are a great team and have shown it against Sweden and Holland," said Casillas. "The previous result is of no value, it is a new match."source : www.goal.com
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