Del Bosque salutes Spain mettle

Spain manager Vicente del Bosque was pleased with his side’s fighting qualities after they scored a 1-0 win over Colombia in Madrid.

The visitors had plenty of chances to score against the reigning world champions, but in the end it was Manchester City midfielder David Silva who scored the winner with just four minutes remaining.

Del Bosque said the spirit shown by his men was a welcome sight following the disappointment of their last match – a 4-0 drubbing at the hands of Portugal in November.

“We had a very good game, and had a different attitude to that day in Portugal,” del Bosque said. “Our commitment was better, and resulted in Silva’s goal.”

“We were facing a very good team who made things uncomfortable for us. The most important thing for me is that I saw a different attitude in my side from the game we lost against Portugal and for that I am happy.”

Del Bosque added that Wednesday’s win provided valuable confidence ahead of his side’s Euro 2012 qualifiers against the Czech Republic and Lithuania next month.

“The concentration is important, and prepares us well for the qualifying matches in March,” he said.