Monday, 13th October, 2014
Spain boss Vicente del Bosque has showered praise on Diego Costa after the striker netted his first goal for the nation in their 4-0 win over Luxembourg in a 2016 European qualifier last night.
Costa, who joined Chelsea from Atletico Madrid in the summer, scored 36 goals in all competitions for the Spanish champions last season.
The 26-year-old has also been in fine form for the Blues, having already scored nine goals in as many appearances for the Premier League outfit.
However Costa, who struggled to replicate his club form at international level, scored his maiden goal for Spain against Luxembourg at the Stade Josy Barthel.
Costa scored Spain’s third goal in the 69th minute after David Silva and Paco Alcacer gave La Roja a 2-0 lead going into the half-time break.
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And Del Bosque, whose side rounded off the scoring through Juan Bernat in the 88th minute, lauded Costa’s work-ethic.
“[Costa] is truly giving his all; he wishes to pay us back for all the support we gave him”, the manager told UEFA’s official site.
“He feels comfortable with this group of players and we appreciate his efforts and the way he makes himself available on the pitch.
“He combined well with Paco Alcacer, who needed to find space.”
Del Bosque further added that he told Costa to stay focused during the half-time break as the striker was visibly frustrated after failing to score in the first half.
“During the half-time break, I told him to stay focused because if he kept calm he would get a lot of satisfaction”, he continued.
“We noticed he was upset with his performance.
“He was getting frustrated because he couldn't finish, but when a player puts in as much enthusiasm as he did today, he eventually gets what he desires.”
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