As Spain qualified for the knockout stages of the World Cup despite a 2-1 loss to Japan, Graham Souness and Gary Neville revealed how impressed they were with the country’s midfield players.
Sergio Busquets is playing in his fourth World Cup with Spain, and he is joined by fellow Barcelona team mates Pedri and Gavi, who are 20 and 18 respectively.
They’ve won many plaudits for their performances so far this tournament and Souness and Neville weren’t afraid to hide their high praise for the trio.
“Busquets isn’t pacey, but he has got great technique, has played in great teams and now has Gavi and Pedri alongside him,” said Souness.
“He always wants to play the ball forward and he has an awareness that very few other players have.”
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On the midfield as a whole, Neville said: “It is a thing of beauty. Spain have been the best team in this tournament as a unit and the midfield is the beating heart of this team. Having Busquets with Gavi and Pedri in front of him is outstanding to watch.”
Spain are also joined in the knockout stages by Japan, as Germany finish third in Group E despite their 4-2 victory over Costa Rica.