LONDON: Spain Captain Sergio Busquets said the team would return stronger after gaining a vital experience during their trip to the Euro 2020 semi-finals, despite losing punishment in Italy on Tuesday.
“Too bad, we will love our tournament not to end today but it’s football,” Busquets told Radio Marca.
“The team is very good, we are a better team for almost all matches.
We can be proud, I feel proud of my teammate.
Everyone makes Italian favorites, but we show us better.” Alvaro Morata came from the bench to equalize late for Spain at Wembley and cancel the opening goal of Federico Chiesa at the hour.
But Morata and Dani Olmo skipped shots after the match was finished 1-1 after extra time, with Italy advanced to 4-2 last penalty.
“With many young players it will serve to give them self-confidence.
This team will return,” Busquets said.
“Overall I believe we are better, but football like that and we have to congratulate them (Italy).
There are still half a year to go to the World Cup, but we are on the right track.” Busquets, now 32, is the only member of the current team to play in the 2010 World Cup, where Spain defeated the Dutch in the final.
Barcelona midfielder refused to be withdrawn in his international future.
“It’s not the time to think of me.
It’s time to be sad and proud at the same time.
Not the time to think of me, but from that group.”