Spain midfielder Gavi has labelled Portugal as the toughest opponent his side has encountered in the FIFA World Cup so far, highlighting their strong midfield ahead of the round of 16 clash. The match, set for July 7 at 12:30 AM IST in Arlington, USA, will see 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo lead Portugal against a young Spanish generation featuring Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, and Gavi himself.
Gavi on Portugal's strength
Speaking ahead of the match, Gavi told Goal.com, "It is clear that they are the strongest opponent we have faced so far. They are a great national team with good players. I hope the team is focused on what we have to do, on the coach's plan, and that we all go together to win this tie. They have a great midfield, but we also have very good players. I think the best thing we have is such a large squad with good footballers."
Gavi defends aggressive style
The Barcelona star, known for his intense tackling, acknowledged that his playing style draws criticism. He said, "Perhaps many people are waiting for me because I am a player who goes into tackles hard, and perhaps many people do not like that type of player. I always consider myself a very complete player, with many facets to my game. My best qualities are my competitiveness, that intensity I have on the field. I will never change. I know there will always be people waiting."
Team unity key for World Cup success
Having come off the bench in Spain's 3-0 win over Austria in the round of 16, Gavi expressed his willingness to contribute in any role. He stated, "I have said a couple of times that I'm here to help the team. I know the confidence the coach has in me, he has always had it. As I tell him, I'm there for him and for the team when he needs me. This is a World Cup, and World Cups are won by those who are together in good times and bad. We have a very large squad, and at any time, any player can come out to contribute that grain of sand."
