Thierry Henry acknowledged Spain’s superiority in the World Cup semifinal against France (2-0).

“France was disappointing, and Spain was infinitely superior in every area of the field. They passed the ball around France as if the French weren’t even on the field. The Spaniards know what to do on the field from the age of 9. In contrast, France was lifeless and had no answers tactically,” said the 48-year-old French legend.

“I’ve experienced this as a player against Spain, but also as a coach. I’ve experienced it with Barcelona, too. You have to understand that the ball is moving. Everyone has to stay in their position. Trust your teammates, let the ball move… Movement. No one stays in the same position… It sounds simple, doesn’t it? 2–0 in a World Cup semifinal,” he added.

“It doesn’t matter who scores and who doesn’t. They know that. Who are you? What’s your philosophy? What’s your identity? When a player comes in—even if it’s his first, second, or third tournament—he knows the system because he plays in the same system. It’s pretty simple,” he concluded.

*photo source: AP