I have double value for defeating Ghana - Spain Coach

Seoul (SK), Sept. 8, GNA - Head coach of Spain's U-17 national team, Juan Santisteban has said that he would gain a double value back in Spain for his ability to defeat Ghana at the semi final to reach the finals of the U-17 World Cup currently underway in South Korea He said he has broken the jinx and set the record of being the first coach in the U-17 side to defeat Ghana in the history of the U-17 tournament, saying, "I would have double value and respect back in Spain".

Coach Santisteban told the GNA Sports in Seoul on Saturday that he still has a lot of respect for Ghana soccer since the win over the Starlets was not an easy one. "Ghana is a strong side and I still have a lot of respect for them. Ghana always carried the day in our previous encounters and we are very happy we defeated them this time round", he added.

"Why double value?, People back in Spain lost hope in the final when they got the news that we are meeting Ghana, but I assured them that I would reach the final and bring the cup home". He said.

"Ghana was considered the strongest side in this tournament and even the soccer loving Koreans knew Ghana would lift the cup, but by the grace of God we prevented them from getting closer to the cup". He added.

"Nigeria? I feared Ghana more than Nigeria. They are also strong but I will watch all their videos and draw up strategies, maybe God would help us again." On the question about the absence of Bojan the coach said, "His absence is a big blow to us but every player in our camp is equally good and we are determined to lift the cup for the first time."

Spain defeated Ghana 2-1 last Wednesday in their Semi-final encounter in Ulsan to reach the finals of this year's World Cup U-17 tournament in South Korea. The Spaniards would next meeting Nigeria who also defeated Germany 3-1 while Ghana and Germany would be meeting for the third and fourth place positions on Sunday.