Too much praise for Spain is dangerous, says Del Bosque

Vicente del Bosque is wary of the possibility that excessive praise can have an adverse effect on his Spain team's performances on the pitch.

La Roja cruised to an unprecedented third consecutive major tournament triumph with a 4-0 win over Italy in the Euro 2012 final on July 1, prompting many to debate as to whether they are the best international side in history.

However, the former Real Madrid coach feels that his troops must remain humble if they are to progress further, and ignore the plaudits lavished upon them.

"Too much praise is dangerous," he said according to Sport. "It is not normal because of the 16 teams that take part in every European Championship, 15 will fail.

"You can also take positives from defeat."

Three members of the side that triumphed in Poland and Ukraine will also take part in the 2012 Olympic Games, and Del Bosque went on to voice his hope that Spain can win a second competition this summer.

"I hope that the Spanish athletes can play a big role, despite the difficulties that exist on a daily basis in a more equal competition.

"We are in a particularly good spell for sports in our country in various fields, both as a team and as individuals."

Spain will take on Japan, Honduras and Morocco in the group stage at London 2012, and will set up a quarter-final tie with one of Brazil, Egypt, Belarus or New Zealand should they progress.