Spain Faces Belgium: Carmona Dismisses the Favorite Role
Spanish defender Olga Carmona has stated that within the national team, they don’t talk about being favorites, despite the resounding victory against Portugal. Spain is preparing for its next challenge against Belgium in the European Championship.
After a remarkable 5-0 victory over Portugal, which positions them in a promising place in the tournament, the team seeks to secure their place in the quarterfinals. Carmona emphasizes the importance of staying calm and focusing on each match.
Internally, we don’t mention that word [favorites]. We want to keep adding victories. Football is unpredictable and we want to go step by step.
Olga Carmona
Carmona, recently signed by Paris Saint-Germain, highlighted the importance of not underestimating any opponent. “Every team is going to make things difficult,” she stated. Spain has shown a remarkable recovery, with six consecutive victories in all competitions.
The player also highlighted the improvement in the team’s pressure, a key aspect of their current performance. “We have improved there. That pressure after losing the ball is part of our DNA and sometimes we forget it,” added Carmona, acknowledging the role of the coaching staff in this improvement.
Coach Montse Tomé joined Carmona’s stance, underlining the need to maintain humility and keep working hard. “We’ve only won one match. We have to keep our feet on the ground, be humble, and work hard,” Tomé commented.
For the match against Belgium, Spain will have the return of captain Irene Paredes, who served a suspension. In addition, Aitana Bonmatí, after recovering from viral meningitis, is ready to be considered in the starting eleven.
Tom praised Bonmatí’s mindset and her commitment to the tournament. “She has an incredible mindset and is very focused on this European Championship. The good thing is that she has recovered,” concluded the coach.
