Spain has become the champion of FIFA World Cup 2010 after defeating Netherlands 1-0 thanks to an extra time strike from Andres Iniesta. This is the first time, Spain has clinched the World Cup title and they have become the only second European team after Germany (then West Germany) to win the title as the current European Champion.
Spain dominated in the first half and came very close to scoring on at least 3 occasions. Sergio Ramos missed a very good chance in the box, but his header went just wide off the target. Then David Villa’s powerful shot from the left side went out.
Ramos once again got a good chance on the right flank, but the Dutch defense was up to the mark to clear it. Netherlands got their only chance in the first half, but Spain as well as their captain Iker Casillas was lucky that the long range shot was off the target.
Though Spain still played better in the second half, Netherlands improved on their first half performance. Spain created a number of scoring opportunities, but Maarten Stekelenburg made some excellent saves and denied the Spaniards. However, Arjen Robben got Casillas in one-to-one situation on two occasions, but could not open scoring for his team.
In the extra time, Stekelenburg once again saved the Dutch when he excellently blocked a Fabregas shot in the first half. Spain finally got the winning goal through Andres Iniesta who scored just 4 minutes off the final whistle. Netherlands players claimed for off-side, but TV replays cleared all the doubts.
In many senses, it was a very nervy affair with both sides missing many opportunities. There is no doubt, Spain played better than Netherlands throughout the game and they deserved the victory.
To some extent, the Dutch side played some rough football and defender John Heitinga received the marching order in the 20th minute of extra time for illegally tackling at the edge of the box. Besides Heitinga’s send-off, eight of the Dutch players were booked during the game, while Spain picked up 5 yellow cards.
ITS BAD LUCK FOR NED DAT AN OFF SIDE SHOT LEADS THEM TO A WORLD CUP FINAL DEFEAT. LUCKILY PAUL PROVES TO BE TRUE FOR SPAIN. SPAIN WILL ALWAYS PRAISE THE REFEREE.
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