Spain "won't relax" at Euro 2024 now that they are being regarded as "favourites," says forward Mikel Oyarzabal.
After topping Group B and defeating Georgia 4-1, Spain has set up a quarter-final clash against hosts Germany on Friday (17:00 BST).
Oyarzabal believes Spain's performances in the European Championship have shifted public perception, with former doubters now backing them to go all the way.
"They say it now, but three weeks ago nobody said that about us," the Real Sociedad forward remarked. "We're sticking to the same idea and continuing in the same way, trusting ourselves, knowing we can compete against anyone."
Spain had endured a 44-year drought without a major trophy before winning Euro 2008, which kicked off a historic run that included the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012 titles. Their first trophy since then came with the 2023 Nations League victory. This team has impressed in Germany, and Oyarzabal asserts that Spain are "capable of competing against anyone."
"For me and for any of us here, we've got the best national team possible," Oyarzabal said. "We've got the best players, the best team-mates. We're all for one; there are no divisions within the team, and we all feel important."
To reach the final, Spain will first need to overcome a "tough" Germany side that won their group and beat Denmark in the last 16.
"Germany are a great team, you don't need me to tell you that. They've started the tournament really strong, it's going to be a tough game," said the 27-year-old, who started in their 1-0 group-stage win against Albania.
Oyarzabal emphasized that his team remains focused and is preparing diligently for the challenging quarter-final.
"Just because people believe we are more or less favourites, it does not mean we are going to ease up," he added. "We're relaxed, working hard, and trying to prepare as well as possible for Friday."