Spain Players Blame Poor Grass Conditions and Scotland’s Antics for their Defeat in Euro 2024 Qualifying Match

Spain’s 38 match, unbeaten run in European qualifying matches came to an end as they lost to Scotland, with Osasuna centre-back David Garcia controversially blaming the poor result on the grass being too long at Hampden. Scott McTominay scored twice to hand Scotland their first win over Spain since 1984 on Tuesday night.

Spain captain, Rodri also criticised Scotland’s approach to the game, calling it “not football” and the referee should have intervened with the supposed antics of the Scottish players.

However, Scotland’s surprising win sees them sitting at the top of Group A in qualifying for Euro 2024 after two games played, giving them a great position for the rest of the qualification process.

Spain’s Excuses: From Poor Grass Conditions to the Opposition’s Antics

Spain players took their Euro 2024 qualifying defeat to Scotland grudgingly, criticising the way the referee handled the game, the approach of the opposition and even the length of the grass at Hampden Park.

The defeat represented Spain’s first loss in 38 European qualifying matches, ending an impressive run which extended back to 2014 when they lost to Slovakia in qualifying for Euro 2016.

Osasuna centre-back, David Garcia, who made his Spain international debut against Scotland, blamed the poor result on the grass being too long at Hampden. However, he also added in his post-match interview that they couldn’t make excuses and should look at themselves, fixing what they did wrong.

Spain captain, Rodri, criticised Scotland’s approach to the game, complaining that the way they played is “not football” and the referee should have intervened with the supposed antics of the Scottish players.

“We conceded easy goals – this is football, if you concede easy goals, you are penalised,” he said. “It’s the way they play, but for me, it’s rubbish, always wasting time, provoking you, always they fall. For me, this is not football. The referee has to take on this, but he says nothing.”

Conclusion:

Despite the loss, Spain still has a chance to bounce back and make the tournament, but it’s crucial that they address their weaknesses and play to win. As for Scotland, they are in a good position now and will be looking to continue their winning ways for the rest of the qualifying matches.

Group A of Euro 2024 qualifying also includes Georgia, Norway, and Cyprus.