Share

Iniesta still running the show at 32

Cape Town - If bookmakers introduced a bet on who would be named official man-of-the-match at tournaments, Andres Iniesta would be a short-priced favourite in every Spain match at Euro 2016.

Given that honour in the World Cup final of 2010, he is still going strong six years later, with more than 30 major trophies for club and country.

The 32-year-old midfielder was again named for the individual honours after Spain's 1-0 win over the Czech Republic in Group D on Monday, earned by his precise cross for Gerard Pique to head in a late winner.

As an integral part of the side who won the last two European Championships either side of that World Cup triumph, he now bears even more responsibility as the main midfield cog since Barcelona club mate Xavi Hernandez retired from international football.

Not that it appears to be taking any great toll, judging by Monday's performance.

"I always try to have high responsibility," he told reporters afterwards. "That's how I've always done it. It's all about a collective game and we all have to give that bit of ourselves."

After so many big games for Barcelona and Spain he was hardly going to be surprised that the Czechs defended in numbers and attempted to stop the quick passing through the middle that has opened up defences down the years.

"It's not the first time we've had that kind of game," Iniesta added in his understated way. "It means opponents have a lot of respect for the way we play. You have to be calm and keep going forward until you achieve what you want.

"They had chances, but that's the way we play. It's a question of patience. We had a tough first game but we're very happy to start with three points and we've taken a step forward."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1472 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2250 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE