De la Fuente calls reaching FIFA World Cup final a "privilege" ahead of Argentina clash

The Spanish boss dismissed suggestions that the tournament's shortened 17-minute half-time break could have any impact on his players, saying they have adapted to the competition's unique demands.

"Before we started this journey, I told the players how this tournament would unfold," De la Fuente said. "Something that seems strange to us now might become normal in a few years. We have to adapt and, since it can't be changed, enjoy it."

While many focus only on lifting the trophy, De la Fuente insisted playing in a World Cup final is an honour in itself.

"Just being in a final is a privilege," he said. "I'd sign up to lose a World Cup final every year because reaching this stage is so important. The fact we also have the chance to fight for the title makes it even more special."

The Spain coach expects a closely contested match between two sides with similar football philosophies.

"It will be a great spectacle," he said. "Two top teams with many similarities in their style. Both teams will try to take the game where it suits them best, but hopefully quality shines through."

De la Fuente also called on everyone to enjoy the occasion.

"It's a privilege to be in this situation," he said. "We want to enjoy this incredible moment while staying fully focused on the job."

The final will be the fourth showpiece match De la Fuente has led Spain into, and he credited hard work and his coaching staff for the team's success.

"The secret is work, work and more work," he said. "Even then things don't always go your way. You need good people around you and a coaching staff that helps you compete for important things."

The Spanish coach confirmed his side will not assign a player to man-mark Lionel Messi despite the Argentina captain's reputation.

"I met Messi when I was coaching Sevilla's youth teams," he said. "The first time we tried man-marking him, I changed a player and he scored four goals. We won't be using man-marking, although they'll also be watching our players."

De la Fuente also praised Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni, describing him as both a friend and someone he greatly respects.

"We have a great relationship," he said. "We're both fierce competitors and there's mutual admiration."

He rejected criticism that Argentina play dirty, instead highlighting the quality of the reigning world and South American champions.

"I respect everyone's opinions, but I have great admiration for a team that are world and South American champions, led by a friend of mine," he said. "Each team will use its footballing strengths and whoever limits the opponent's qualities will be closer to winning."

De la Fuente believes Sunday's final will be decided by the smallest moments.

"You have to win through the details, stay true to your ideas and try to impose yourself," he said. "When it's time to suffer, we'll suffer, and when we have the chance, we'll try to take control."

There was also positive news on teenage star Lamine Yamal after concerns over a knock he suffered earlier in the week.

"He took a hard knock in a painful area," De la Fuente said. "We preferred he rested yesterday, but today he trained as normal. He's in perfect physical condition."

The Spain coach also revealed he has sought advice from Vicente del Bosque, who guided Spain to World Cup glory in 2010.

"I've already spoken to Del Bosque," he said. "He's someone I care about a lot and a football wise man. He's experienced this situation before, so it's good to receive his advice."

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