Del Bosque: Aggressive Equatorial Guinea made it awkward for Spain

The 62-year-old feels the
enthusiastic approach of their
African hosts made life tough for
the world champions, though he
insists they were not overly violent
in their play
Spain boss Vicente del Bosque admitted
his side were made to suffer for their 2-1
victory during Saturday's friendly clash
with Equatorial Guinea.
Santi Cazorla and Juanfran settled a
competitive encounter during which the
hosts adopted a tough-tackling approach
in an effort to disrupt the world and
European champions.
Xabi Alonso was forced to hobble off the
pitch after one such challenge, but Del
Bosque insists the home side were
controlled in their aggression as they
worked hard to make life tough
throughout the 90 minutes.
"It was an awkward match. They were
physically strong and did not let us play
with ease," he told reporters after the
match.
"We wanted to play but were inhibited.
Guinea were aggresive and they put us a
little on the back foot. They, with their
attitude, not violence, did not let us
play."
The World champions will take on South
Africa next as preparations to defend
their crown in Brazil next year continue.