Retired Brazilian footballer Tostão has heaped praise on Spain and thanked them for their “enormous contribution” to football.
The World Cup holders have already been knocked out of the tournament after losing their opening two games but the 67-year-old has applauded La Roja’s tiki-taka style.
The legendary forward was quoted by Football Espana, he said: “Barcelona and Spain have made an enormous contribution to world football.
“The top national teams and club sides have incorporated the attractive and efficient style of the Spanish and added several important details.
“This mix is the reason for the excellent football we’re seeing today at the World Cup.”
Tostão went on to add that Spain’s achievements over the past six years are even more remarkable considering they haven’t had a great forward player.
He added: “The Spain midfield is so spectacular that even without a great player in attack they won two European Championships in a row and a World Cup. With the decline of the playmakers, the deficiencies in attack became more evident.
“Spain, thank you. It is thrilling to see such beautiful games. I get to my feet and I applaud you.”
