There were still two days until the Semifinals began, and all four teams were making their final preparations.
Spain Team underwent two straight days of high intensity training.
Their actions showed just how seriously they took China Team.
On the final day before the game, a Brazilian reporter interviewed Fernandez, who had just finished training.
"What do you think about the loss four years ago?"
The reporter's question was sharp, but Fernandez had long expected it.
"That has no reference value. You know we've beaten them many times—at the Olympics, World Championships, Warm-up Games, every competition you can think of.
"But they only beat us once, and that was when we weren't adequately prepared. You only remember that one time, because us beating them is simply how things should be."
Fernandez was an extremely proud player. Back when he played one season with the Trail Blazers, he had already become part of the team's rotation, but he felt he hadn't received enough respect and chose to leave the following year.
Faced with the reporter's question, his answer was direct and confident.
"But they're different from ever before. They defeated the USA Team, and some of your Core Players didn't come. Do you still think your team can win?"
the reporter pressed.
"Of course. Mark and Ibaka didn't come, but Mirotic did, and Paul did too. Besides that, Rudy has improved, and Rodriguez had a peak season last year.
"We're still that Spain Team, and our goal has never changed: defeat the USA Team and win the Olympic Gold Medal."
Unlike Marc Gasol four years ago, Fernandez showed not contempt, but confidence.
He confidently believed that Spain Team had come to compete with the USA Team for the gold, and that before then, they would not lose to any team.
"This