Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano 'Dibu' Martínez has claimed his team would beat Spain if the 2022 World Cup final were replayed today. The Chelsea shot-stopper, currently injured, stated that the France side they faced in the final commanded more respect from him than the current Spanish team, which is on a run of four straight wins.
"France in 2022 imposed more on me than this Spain. They are very good, but I have the feeling that today we beat them," Martínez said in an interview. These comments come as Luis de la Fuente's Spain side is on a four-game winning streak, most recently a 1-2 victory over Croatia on October 6, and prepares for its next qualifying match away to Czechia on November 12. In that win in Croatia, Mikel Merino scored both Spanish goals in the second half.
Final context
Martínez was a direct witness to Argentina's extra-time defeat in that final, settled by a solitary Torres goal. Despite that setback, the 34-year-old keeper was instrumental in Argentina's World Cup triumph in 2022 after defeating France in a penalty shootout. Now, from afar and while recovering from a jaw fracture suffered with Chelsea on October 17, he has issued this challenge.
Describing his injury, the goalkeeper was blunt. "It was like a UFC K.O. I passed out and don't remember anything." he explained. His stated aim is to be ready for Argentina's fixtures next month.
Spain's implicit response
Martínez's words contrast sharply with the excellent form of the Spanish national team. The side is unbeaten in its last four matches, a run that includes wins over Croatia, England, and Czechia. Players like Mikel Merino, who scored a brace in the latest victory, or top scorer this season Mikel Oyarzabal with five goals, are evidence of a squad brimming with confidence. This run of four wins, zero draws, and zero defeats began with a victory over England and continued with a thrashing of Croatia and a 3-1 win over Czechia, where Merino also scored.
Spain's next test is precisely against Czechia, an opponent they beat 3-1 just a month ago. La Roja approaches this final stretch of the group phase in high spirits, with a collective game that appears to have found its best version.
The match in Prague on November 12 will be the next step in Luis de la Fuente's impeccable tenure in charge of the national team.
The original report is at Estadio Deportivo
