Spain Unfazed by Argentina in Padel World Cup: "No Clear Favorite"

Spain remains confident as they gear up for the semifinal match against Argentina in the Padel World Cup, despite the absence of star player Ale Galán. Both national coach Juanjo Gutiérrez and key player Arturo Coello spoke about their resolve in a press conference following their quarterfinal victory against Brazil, asserting that the competition remains highly balanced. Gutiérrez emphasized, "I believe there is no clear favorite. Much depends on how the matchups fall and how the players feel on the day. They all know each other very well; this sport heavily influences the players' mood, and especially the timing with which they arrive at the match. So I think it will be decided by small details."

Arturo Coello, ranked among the top players, stated, "We are favorites." He also discussed his role within the team, noting, "No, I don't feel like a leader. If I lead at times, it’s completely unintentional due to my personality. I don't try to take charge of the team; I rather stay quite reserved. I aim to contribute what I can, to help those who ask for my assistance, but I keep to myself. I think there are personalities in this team that have a greater influence, like Paco or Juan, who naturally take on leadership roles; I am more laid back in that regard. My idea is not to lead but to be just another player and contribute my part."

Gutiérrez humorously praised veteran player Paquito Navarro, stating, "When he started playing, Javi didn't even know what padel was. It didn't exist. Therefore, Paco is like that person who is 2,000 years old and is still competing." Navarro serves as a bridge across generations, having played through three different eras in the sport.

Javi Leal highlighted the camaraderie within the team: "It’s a week where we have the chance to enjoy a lot of company and to talk to people we might not have time for during the year, and to also learn by observing how certain players train and think. In addition, we all share the same objective and represent the same values and hopes, which makes us very happy."

As for the upcoming lineup, Gutiérrez did not reveal any details about which players he would choose for the final match against Portugal. He mentioned he has a plan forming but insists on keeping specifics under wraps: "Yes, I certainly have a more or less arranged idea now, but it’s all about the details. I can’t provide more information." However, he acknowledged that Javi Leal and Arturo Coello have surprised him the most together on the court.

Despite having advanced easily through the rounds, Gutiérrez noted that his players are feeling the excitement and pressure as they near the decisive moment: "I believe the team continues to maintain a good work ethic, a lot of chemistry, and today I discussed it with Nacho, my trainer; this morning when I arrived at the gym, I noticed different faces; I saw looks that had entirely changed." In the semifinals, Spain will face Portugal, while Argentina will compete against Italy. Both teams seek to recreate their rivalry for the world championship two years later.