Jorge Vilda wanted to highlight the ability of his players to react after conceding a goal in the first 50 seconds against Finland. “It’s not the best start, but we’ve been able to solve it on a high note”, he pointed out after the match, assuring that “the feeling is good, because the objective has been achieved”.
Mapi León also spoke along these lines: “Nobody expected the goal in the first minute, I didn’t understand how it could have happened, but the important thing is that the team has recovered”. The Aragonese central defender, author of two assists and one of those responsible for the mistake that cost Finland the goal, has recognized that they have been better in the second half: “They have generated many counterattacks for us in the first half, then we have controlled them better ”. Her partner in the axis of defense has not hidden the rage with which she has celebrated her goal, which meant the tie: “We have had many doubts after Alexia and that they scored the goal so soon. Besides, I score few goals and when I do, I celebrate them with rage”.
“I’m very happy with how we’ve approached the game after conceding so quickly”, confessed Aitana Bonmatí. The azulgrana has the responsibility of leading the Spanish midfield in the absence of Alexia, although she prefers to talk about shared responsibilities: “These have been very hard days due to his injury, we all had to take a step forward, not just me. But I always push myself to the fullest. We couldn’t lower our arms when we received the goal and I don’t think we did. We have had a positive and winning mentality and this has been reflected in the scoreboard. What happened today on the pitch has given us confidence”.
Her companions have also spoken about Alexia’s presence in the stands of Stadium MK in Milton Keynse. “She wanted to experience something of this Euro. She won’t be able to stay in the tournament any longer, unfortunately. Everything good that happens will be for her, and for Jenni, Virginia, Salma… this is a boat and we all row”, expressed Aitana Bonmatí. For her part, Mapi León has recognized that “there are not many words to describe what Alexia transmits”. “She transmits a lot of security and gives us a lot of peace. She really likes football and analyzes it very well ”, highlighted the center-back.
