Xabi feeling confident

[Gilps]

Alonso confident of progressing

 

Spain midfielder Xabi Alonso insists the side will not be getting carried away as they prepare to face France in the second round of the World Cup.

 

Spain were impressive in topping their group with three wins and Alonso knows the need to build on that good start.

 

"The atmosphere is always better when you are performing well and winning games," said Alonso.

 

"But we know it's a tough competition so we have to focus and concentrate. We want to go as far as possible."

 

Alonso was one of the key players rested when Spain beat Saudi Arabia 1-0 in their final group match.

 

He says the team have gained in belief as they enter a match against the struggling 1998 World Cup winners.

 

"It was boost winning the first two games because we reached the knock-out stage," said the Liverpool player.

 

"That's what we wanted, now we have rested some players, and at the same time confidence in the team is high.

 

Torres has justified his impressive reputation at the World Cup

 

"But now we want to continue and show it on the pitch."

 

The match will have two interesting sub-plots with Spain manager Luis Aragones and French striker Thierry Henry up against each other.

 

Aragones was involved in a controversy in which he made racist remarks concerning Henry.

 

Spain and Atletico Madrid striker Fernando Torres will also be under the microscope, after he was linked to a £20m move to Manchester United.

 

"He's a very quick player," said Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas about his international team-mate.

 

"He's very competitive. He's a winner and you always like to have this kind of player in your team."

[Figaro]

This match has Henman-Spanish style written all over it - unfortunately...

 

Saw the interview with Xabi - he looked relaxed and well happy.