Spain can retain title, says Butragueno

Spain may not have been at their best yet during Euro 2012 but former striker Emilio Butragueno told L'Equipe he believes they are still capable of retaining the trophy.

"We have still the means to be European champions," he said. "What makes me optimistic is the knockout round matches, as we are playing better and better, without going over the top or in a crazy fashion. And when I see what Iker Casillas does in goal, I think it is an emormous advantage to have the best goalkeeper in the world."

"I cannot say that Spain has been at its best after what I saw in the group stage," he said.

"But for the teams who are genuine contenders for the title the tournament only really begins at the knockout stages. It is only in those matches where you see if a team has the nerves to go on and win the trophy.