Sergio Busquets proves key as Spain gets back on track

BAKU: After helping Spain avoid elimination at the European Championship, Sergio Busquets had to pause for a moment while talking about his time away from the squad because of the coronavirus.

The Spain captain teared up recalling the doubts that went through his mind after being told he had to go into isolation only days before the tournament was to begin.

"I'm emotional because I had to go through some difficult times," Busquets said. "I had to stay at home for 10 days, not knowing if I was going to be back or not."

Spain was glad Busquets did make it back, just in time to lead the team to victory over Slovakia on Wednesday.

The result allowed Spain to finish second in Group E, setting up a meeting against Croatia in Copenhagen on Monday.

"All this helped us grow," Busquets said. "Now whatever challenges we have in front of us, we will face them with this mentality."

Busquets' return was a big boost for a Spanish squad that lacked leadership and struggled with poor finishes and a shaky defense in the first two matches.

The 32-year-old midfielder, the only member left from Spain's World Cup-winning squad in 2010, gave the team that much-needed balance it had been missing so far at Euro 2020.

Busquets was the first Spaniard to touch the ball when the match started at La Cartuja Stadium, and he was in control of the midfield from then on.

Collected and composed as usual, Busquets showed no signs of being affected by his less-than-ideal preparations because of the virus. He constantly guided his teammates and helped created chances in attack and keep the defense protected.

"It's a pleasure to be able to play with Busquets because everything is easier," Spain forward Ferran Torres said Thursday.

"We all know about his history, about what he has given to this national team. We only have to enjoy his game and keep up with him."

Busquets, who was asymptomatic with the virus and could practice at home while in isolation, had been replaced in the first two matches by Rodri Hernández, who couldn't bring in the same attitude and leadership of the veteran Barcelona player. Agencies

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