Real Madrid and Spain defender Sergio Ramos has said his country’s trip to South Africa this week is a way of saying thanks to the locals who hosted and supported them in the World Cup in 2010.
La Roja won the tournament at Soccer City in Johannesburg, with Andre Iniesta’s goal in extra time becoming part of Spanish folklore. Spaniards across the world remember where they were and what they were doing the day they won the World Cup.
An in an interview with Madrid-based daily AS, Ramos was asked about his memories of the tournament. The 27-year-old. who has won well over 100 caps for his country, said he cherished every moment of the month the team spent in the Rainbow Nation.
“Every memory of that time is fantastic, it feels like it was only yesterday, but years go by quickly. Now we have to defend the title. We got the rewards for all the work that every player who has played for Spain deserved. The memory that sticks out the most is Andrés’ goal, and when the final whistle blew. At that moment, I felt so proud to be Spanish and to be able to defend my country,” he stated.
He admitted he has a number of souvenirs from the last World Cup that he treasures, including shirts, photos and a small replica of the trophy itself. “We didn’t win my neighbourhood tournament, we won the World Cup, and that’s something to be proud of for the rest of your life,” Ramos said.
As Vicente del Bosque’s side prepare for the friendly against Bafana Bafana, Ramos said the 2010 World Cup host have a strong team and will prove to be a tough match.
“Every team that we meet wants to play as well as possible because beating the world champions is so significant. South Africa have quality and a strong team and we hope everyone will see a great spectacle,” he concluded.
