Their profligacy is not a new concern; it was evident during last summer's Euros, particularly in the quarterfinal against France and the semifinal against Spain. But this time it hurt them more than it should have. In many ways, it was a near-perfect performance. Germany created wave after wave of opportunities, pushed Spain deep into their own half, and left goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger with little to do. Yet the one thing they needed, and arguably deserved, never came: a goal.
Mikel Oyarzabal scored twice as he helped Spain to the brink of World Cup qualification with a 4-0 win over Georgia on Saturday. Spain sit top of Group E after five games, with a three-point lead over Turkiye, who they face in their final match on Tuesday. Ferran Torres saw an early shot blocked, but it resulted in an 11th-minute penalty as Giorgi Gocholeishvili was penalised for a handball - Oyarzabal coolly converted into the bottom-right corner.
I am very flattered. I've always said that I feel very valued by players, by staff. And for me that's the ultimate. Moreover, that they also transmit it to you. It is a reason to be happy because that means that I help them - that I contribute positive things within the team, which is what I want. It is a great compliment.
