Luis Enrique on Sergio Ramos: “Ramos’ attitude is, as always, commendable” | OneFootball

La Roja faced Kosovo this evening in Seville, in the third match of the qualification phase for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. It was an important game in building a strong run for Spain, following on from their last-gasp victory over Georgia at the weekend, and they didn’t fail to deliver, securing a strong 3-1 win at La Cartuja.

La Roja started well, dominating the ball if lacking penetration. That was, until, the 34th minute. That’s when Dani Olmo, Spain’s match-winner against Georgia, stepped up to the plate to score his second goal in two games.

Ferran Torres added their second just two minutes later, played in by Barcelona starlet Pedri, who was playing just his third game for Spain as a full international. That could be a link that bears a lot of fruit in the coming years for La Roja.

The game wasn’t over yet, however, and Kosovo struck back to potentially set up an interesting final 20 minutes, Besar Halimi scoring from some distance to make it 2-1. Their window of hope didn’t last long, however, with Gerard Moreno making it 3-1 shortly after with virtually his first touch to settle Spanish nerves and secure victory.

“Today I’m very happy with what I’ve seen on the field,” Luis Enrique said post-match in comments carried by Marca. “At no time was the victory in doubt.”

He was also asked how he manages Sergio Ramos, who came on late in his home city to record his 180th cap for his country and become their longest-serving player in terms of time, 16 years and five days since his debut. “It’s much easier than you think,” Luis Enrique said. “Ramos’ attitude is, as always, commendable. Leaders can contribute to any situation.”