Spanish central defender Sergio Ramos was a proud man as he prepared to win his 100th cap for his country in tonight’s World Cup qualifier against Finland.
“Let’s hope everything goes off well and I can reach the 100 mark. Entering Spanish football history is not simple and I would be extremely proud,” said the Real Madrid star, World Cup winner and European champion.
Spain hope to see off the Finland before taking on France in Paris on Tuesday, having already dropped points against the latter in their previous group meeting.
Assuming he starts against the Finns at El Molinon in Gijon, Ramos will join clubmates Iker Casillas and Xabi Alonso, as well as Barcelona pair Xavi Hernandez and Carles Puyol and Chelsea’s Fernando Torres in reaching a century of international appearances.
“I’m still young, and at a fundamental stage of my career. I only hope that everything goes well so that I can celebrate the achievement with a victory. All these victories and personal achievements are also very important for footballers.
I have been with the squad for many years now and it makes me very proud. I hope that down the line I won’t just be able to say that I played 100 games, but many more,” said Ramos, who joined Real in 2005 from Sevilla, the same year he made his international debut.
He will only turn 27 on March 30, and will be wearing special boots for the occasion with SR15 and 100 Partidos written on them.
Ramos still isn’t focusing on France and wants to think about Finland first.
“First of all we have a game to play, then we can focus on France. You need to respect all your opponents and make sure you don’t underestimate anyone.These two games are decisive for our World Cup qualification hopes.”
Spain are currently joint top of Group I with France with seven points from three games, three clear of Georgia who will play against France tonight, while Finland are bottom with just one point.
Written by Mihir Upadhye
Follow Mihir on Twitter @mihir_upa
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