Aragones searches for killer instinct

Aragones searches for killer instinct
Ahead of the Euro 2008 semi-final clash with Russia, Spain coach Luis Aragones has spoken of the need for his team to close off games which they have had the better of, avoiding a repeat of 2006’s World Cup second round tie against Italy.

The men in red and gold were widely thought to have played better in that game, but failed to make the most of their chances.

Now 69-year-old Aragones, due to step down after the tournament, has told his team to learn from the mistakes of the past.

He said: “I’ve taught them that if you can’t win a match, at least don’t lose it. If you’ve got a goalkeeper like Iker Casillas, who’s been fundamental to my work with Spain, then you’ve always got a chance.”

Arsenal’s Cesc Fabregas and Barcelona’s Xavi are both vying for the playmaker’s role in Aragones’ starting 11, while David Villa is expected to continue his quest for the Golden Boot up front.

Russian trio Diniyar Bilyaletdinov, Ivan Saenko and Alexander Anyukov have been training lightly but are expected to start.

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