It's a bit odd when you see someone rooting against their own country, but judging on the objective side of things, Fabio Capello has a good point and reason to put Spain above Italy in next Monday's round of 16 game. The former Real Madrid coach spoke to Spanish news outlet Marca, he discussed Spain's real chances of defeating Italy and thinks they are favorites to qualify to the quarterfinals where Germany is already expecting them.
Talking to Marca, Capello said: "[They are] a great team. I love the Spanish team - the best of the tournament, although I liked Croatia. La Roja [Spain] should not have lost to the Croats, as they were superior. Spain are pure magic. They have good players, a good coach and good play. If Italy does not win the Euros, I want Spain to win. Vicente [del Bosque]'s team has great quality."
The coach also spoke about striker Alvaro Morata, whom he expects can stay with Real Madrid and isn't sold to the highest bidder in England: "I hope he stays at Real Madrid. Of course Zidane could really use a player as good as Alvaro, who I have followed since he was a kid. Morata is very good. He is a modern [number] 'nine', as journalists say. He is the best [when] he has an eye for goal. He marks many points and he is also decisive. I think Real Madrid and Spain have a 'nine' for many years. By the way, the two years he has been in Turin have been very good. He has grown. In addition, training with Juventus and Italy defenders makes you grow and learn quickly."
Photo credit: Seleccion Española