Texas, July 14 -- Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente thanked the team's supporters after La Roja defeated France 2-0 to reach the FIFA World Cup final, urging fans to continue backing the side as they prepare for the title clash.

Speaking after the semifinal victory, De la Fuente said the support from Spanish fans had been instrumental in the team's journey to the final.

"I want to thank a fanbase that is fully behind us. I feel very proud. Let them keep cheering us on, pushing us; we need that encouragement. The hardest step remains," De la Fuente said.

The Spain coach also hailed his squad, describing the current group of players as exceptional while insisting they still have room to improve.

"We have an exceptional generation of fo...