Madrid, June 20 :

Raul Gonzalez was in the limelight for the right reasons on Tuesday. The Spain captain won widespread praise for his contribution to his team’s 3-1 win over Tunisia in the Group H match, which clinched a place in the second round.

But there were reports earlier on Monday that Raul — the national team’s all-time scorer who hasn’t made the starting lineup for either of Spain’s games — had lost his temper with coach Luis Aragones, who reacted by issuing a statement stressing his team’s professionalism.

However, Raul come on to start the second half and took his tally to 44 goals in 97 internationals. Raul’s celebration was unusually emotional, with the striker screaming in front of teammate Mariano Pernia.

Sports daily As said on Tuesday that Raul’s goal “had removed pressure on him and alleviated tensions,” while Marca said the striker had “appeared when he was most needed.” Raul’s goal, which made him the 16th player to score in three World Cups, was his second in four matches. “The team is playing with confidence and everything is possible. It could be Spain’s World Cup,” As quoted Raul as saying.