EURO 2016
Andrés Iniesta one of the best ever - Petr Cech
The keeper lauded Iniesta after seeing the Spain ace create the goal that condemned his Czech Republic team to defeat in Euro 2016 Group D.
Goalkeeper Petr Cech has heaped praise on Andrés Iniesta after seeing the midfielder set up Spain's late winner over his Czech Republic side at Euro 2016 on Monday.
Iniesta crossed for Gerard Piqué to score an 86th-minute header that broke the Czechs' resistance and ensured the holders earned a 1-0 victory in their opening Group D game.
"One of the best players in the history of football"
Speaking to reporters post-match, Cech admitted: "Iniesta was the best player on the pitch. His passing and movement is absolutely top quality."
And the Arsenal number one declared: "He's one of the best players in the history of football."
"Spain are always one of the favourites"
The 34-year-old also assessed Spain's chances of lifting a third straight European title on the back of their tournament wins in 2008 and 2012.
"I think that they've got a really strong team, with a lot of quality," he explained. "Spain are always one of the favourites."
Reflecting on the Czech Republic's defeat, he said: "Losing the game with three minutes to go is always tough. But I thought we did exceptionally well for 86 minutes.
"We were constantly under pressure, but we managed to block them and keep the clean sheet almost all the way. But unfortunately their talent and quality is huge."