when they take on Ukraine and Juan Mata says it is
special to return.
Spain's return to the scene of their Euro 2012 final victory in
Ukraine is a "fantastic" feeling, Juan Mata has said.
Mata scored the final goal in an emphatic 4-0 win over Italy in
Kiev three years ago as Spain defended the European title they
won in 2008.
With Vicente del Bosque's side set to conclude their Euro 2016
qualifying campaign at Kiev's Olympic Stadium on Monday, the
Manchester United forward is excited to set foot on the famous
pitch once again.
"I have good memories of this stadium. The final in Euro 2012
was beautiful. It's fantastic to return," he said.
"The memories have been coming back ever since we reached
the hotel. It was an unforgettable day. I was proud to have
taken part that day."
Spain have already sealed their place in the finals in France next
year but Mata is determined to sign off qualifying with a strong
showing.
"We know we've qualified but we want to put in a good
performance. I'm sure it'll be a difficult game," he said.
"This team has something if we play at a high level. We're ready
to give our best.
"We've seen a lot of Ukraine's games. They're a very complete
team and it'll be difficult to win tomorrow."
Defender Mikel San Jose is expecting a tough test against
Ukraine's attack - especially with Mykhaylo Fomenko's side
needing to better Slovakia's result against Luxembourg if they
are to claim the second automatic qualifying spot.
"Ukraine are a great team with few weaknesses," said the
Athletic Bilbao man. "They're very strong in attack. It'll be a
good game."
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