UEFA president Michel Platini has defended Euro 2012 finalists Spain against accusations that their famous 'tiki-taka' possession-based approach has become boring.
Spain can become the first team in history to win three consecutive major international tournaments by beating Italy in Sunday's final in Kiev, but they have been criticised for the quality of their football.
Swashbuckling champions at Euro 2008, La Roja have presented a more pragmatic face at Euro 2012, and needed penalties to edge Portugal in the semi-finals.
But Platini, who knows what it takes to win a European Championship, having inspired France to victory on home soil in 1984, says Spain should be congratulated for the evolution in their style.
"I don't agree at all that Spain are boring," he said on Saturday.
"They've got to the final this time with a different style, based on tactical intelligence and technical ability.
"They complete a huge number of passes, although now it's mainly in midfield, as opposed to in the final third.
"But they create a lot of opportunities, and teams should play to the strengths of their players."
Source: AFP
