Czech Republic boss Santi Denia proud despite Spain defeat and disallowed equaliser

Santi Denia said he was proud of the Czech Republic’s performance despite their 3-1 defeat by Spain, after a controversial disallowed goal denied his side the chance to make it 2-2.

The Czech Republic manager praised his players for giving everything in the match and said the team’s approach must remain unchanged.

“We are very proud of the work we produced,” Denia said at his post-match news conference. “The players gave everything they had, and that is the way we must continue.”

The disallowed goal became one of the main talking points of the game, but Denia declined to criticise the referee or become involved in a debate over the decision.

“I respect the referee; it is a very complicated job, and I do not like talking about referees,” he said. “Pablo told me that a foul had been given before the goal, and during the match, with the tension, there were some protests. That is all.”

Denia said the Czech Republic’s progress remained a source of encouragement, despite the result, and believed the experience of facing Spain would help the team in the next phase of its development.

“We are very happy with the team’s work and performance,” he added. “Salama’s team is constantly developing, and commitment is the most important thing. This is the best time to grow as a team, and this difficult experience will benefit us in the Nations League in future.”

The manager also acknowledged that improvements were still required, including from himself, as the Czech Republic continues to develop.

“We have to improve, and I am also part of that,” Denia said. “We have a lot of work to do.”

Denia then reflected on the atmosphere surrounding the fixture and his long-standing relationship with Spain manager Luis de la Fuente.

“There was not time for many things,” he said. “I know everyone at the federation, and I know how much he has grown.”

The two managers embraced after the final whistle, a moment Denia described as the latest expression of a friendship that has lasted 12 years and included difficult periods.

“The hug with Luis was the hug of a friendship that has lasted 12 years and has included difficult times,” said Denia. “This is a period of harmony, and all of you should enjoy it to the fullest.”