Spanish media criticize national team’s first-half display against Egypt

Africa 31 March 2026 at 16:08

Khaled Hegazy

News Editor

Spain’s first-half performance against Egypt came under sharp criticism from Spanish newspaper AS on Tuesday 31 March 31 after Luis de la Fuente’s side went into the break level at 0-0 in their international friendly at RCDE Stadium.

The match forms part of both teams’ preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup but the Spanish outlet made clear it was far from impressed by La Roja’s opening 45 minutes.

Spain accused of lacking clarity

In its live assessment of the first half, AS described Spain’s display as inaccurate and confused arguing that the European side failed to turn possession into real danger.

“Spain, inaccurate and confusing”

The newspaper wrote as it summed up a half in which the home side struggled to impose themselves in the final third.

Although Spain managed to build several attacks, AS said the side lacked precision where it mattered most.

Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo and Ferran Torres were all mentioned as players who could not provide the final touch needed to break down Egypt’s defence.

Egypt seen as the more dangerous side

The criticism became even sharper when AS pointed to Egypt as the team that produced the clearest openings before half-time.

According to the report, Egypt’s first major chance came after misplaced pass from David Raya allowed Zizo to test Spain from distance. The second and most dangerous, saw Omar Marmoush strike the post as Egypt threatened to punish Spain’s lack of control.

That assessment underlined the broader point made by the Spanish newspaper, despite Spain’s status and home advantage, Egypt looked more capable of creating genuine danger during first half.

Pressure grows on De la Fuente

With the game still goalless at the interval, AS suggested the spotlight had already shifted to Spain coach Luis de la Fuente and the decisions he could make after the restart.

“We will see whether Luis de la Fuente turns to the bench to try to revive La Roja” the newspaper concluded.

Related teams and leagues

Egypt

Spain