Del Bosque: "Sometimes it helps to lose"

After losing the Confederations Cup final, Vicente Del Bosque assured that "sometimes it helps to lose" and that Spain's opponent "deserved to win", as well as asking the fans to praise the players instead of criticising them.

"We've remained fair and balanced in victory, and now in defeat as well. We know how hard it is to win. Sometimes it helps to lose so we don't think we're invincible. They managed to beat us with more energy and vitality," he said in a press conference at the Maracaná.

"I'd like to congratulate Brazil on winning the tournament. They were better than us today and deserved to defend their title. They were superior and we had some bad luck at key moments with the first goal in the opening minute to begin with, and the second at the end of the first half."

"We were a little unlucky to let in goals at certain times. But they were superior. Even though we lost, we worked really hard. I'd like to congratulate my players."

He called on Spain fans to recognise the players' efforts. "We regret not being able to give our fans something to celebrate tonight, but that's sport and we faced a very strong opponent which played with everything in its favour from the kick-off."

"The fans should be proud of our players. It's not the time to criticise them, but to praise them. We have to take away the positives and reluctantly accept defeat, whilst remembering that we have great players and a beautiful style," he added.

The manager regretted conceding goals at key times and the physical game which Brazil played to keep Spain in check. "The first goal was key, but it's not an excuse. They really pressed us all over the pitch, with continuous fouls which interrupted the flow of the game. I don't want to use that as an excuse, though."

"Brazil is the favourite for the World Cup. In the Confederations Cup they've grown a lot and finished off their tournament with a great game. They are deserving champions," he concluded.