Morlanes honest, Denia 'proud' of Spain effort
Saturday, May 21, 2016
Article summary
Spain captain Manu Morlanes spoke of the "immense pressure" he felt as he stepped up to take the tenth penalty, while Santi Denia reflected on a "good two weeks" despite defeat in the final.
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Article body
- Spain lose 5-4 on penalties to Portugal in U17 EURO final after 1-1 draw
- La Roja captain Manu Morlanes hits the woodwork after nine successful spot kicks
- Brahim Díaz cancels out right-back Diogo Dalot's opener for Portugal
Santi Denia, Spain coach
We practised penalties with the players, but training and games are two different things. I told them I'm proud of them. It's not so important to win every time because it's impossible to do that.
It was a very good two weeks because we played against strong teams. We beat the Netherlands, Italy, England and Germany – all among the favourites for the tournament – so I can only say once again that I'm very proud of the players. This experience will serve them well.
Manu Morlanes, Spain midfielder and captain
I felt immense pressure. I'm the captain of the team and I had to deliver at a crucial moment. I tried my best to score, I failed, but that happens in football. At some point this game will give me a chance to make up for it.
We hoped to reach the final and, though we failed to win, it's still a very big result for us. Portugal are a great team, they were the favourites. We were worthy competitors until the very end, but they deserved to win it.
Jordi Mboula, Spain winger
We did a good job and improved every day. We performed way above expectations, worked together and had a very good championship. It was an even game. Penalties are a lottery and we just weren't lucky.