The Spain camp is brimming with optimism and unity ahead of their World Cup semi-final showdown against France. Nico Williams sat down with RNE's 'Tablero Deportivo' to discuss the magnitude of the challenge ahead.

"I felt good—sharp, quick, and electric. I came on with a real fire in my belly, desperate to prove myself and truly impose myself on the game," he reflected, looking back at his impactful cameo against Belgium in the quarter-finals.

Turning to more personal matters, Williams recounted the injury he sustained against Uruguay: "It was a very deep, father-to-son style conversation. I was sidelined again by a tackle. That is football. You don't have time to dwell on it; you just have to flip a switch and ensure you are 100% ready."

"I have had to endure a lot this season, both physically and mentally. Many people don't see that; it has been an incredibly gruelling year and my body paid the price. These are things you carry as a badge of honour, but I never back down," he continued.

Regarding the squad harmony, he added: "A World Cup is the pinnacle. Very few players ever get the chance to win one. Whether you are in the starting XI or not, all 26 of us are vital to this mission, and everyone contributes to that positive energy."

On the impact of Lamine Yamal, Williams was full of praise: "Kylian Mbappe is a monster. He is a player who knows how to handle criticism and is undoubtedly one of the world's elite, but in Lamine, we have the best."

Addressing the importance of mental health in the modern game, he noted: "If you want to succeed as a professional footballer, the psychological side is just as important. It has happened to all of us at the start of our careers—checking Twitter to see what people are saying. We try to ensure the public sees us in the best light and knows that we are mentally resilient."

Finally, Williams highlighted Spain's remarkable 36-match unbeaten streak: "Many people don't give that run the credit it deserves. To go unbeaten for so long speaks volumes about the quality and character of this group."

"France are a great team with players who can change a game in an instant. A single flash of brilliance from them can decide the match, but aside from France, we are the best side out there," he concluded.

Nico Williams

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