Spain’s performance in qualifying for the 2010 World Cup can only be given top marks.
On top of wins in each of their ten games, La Roja were the European Zone’s second top scorers with 28 goals while conceding a miserly five at the other end. Maturity, resilience and the ability to overcome adversity were all in evidence during their campaign, and few national teams in world football are blessed with squads of such depth and sheer talent.
The road to South Africa
Their narrow 1-0 win against Bosnia-Herzegovina was typical of the kind of gritty resistance the team has become known for. Armenia and Estonia were dispatched comfortably, followed by wins over Belgium and Turkey. Tickets to South Africa were secured with two qualifying rounds to spare.
Star players
The team’s success has been based on quality and balance throughout the side. Iker Casillas is one of the world’s finest keepers, while midfielder Xavi Hernandez’s inch-perfect passing and vision is vital to the Spaniards’ fluid style, which is completed by the finishing of David Villa and Fernando Torres.
The coach
Vicente del Bosque took over where Luis Aragones left off after Euro 2008, keeping the same footballing philosophy and core of players which dazzled the continent that summer. Del Bosque continued Aragones’ faith in the one-touch style that has traditionally characterised Spain’s play and which relies upon midfielders of the highest quality.
Facts
- Spain have taken part in the finals of 12 World Cups and have not missed a single edition since failing to reach Germany 1974.
- La Roja’s best performance at the global showpiece was a fourth-placed finish at Brazil 1950.
- At senior international level, Spain have two major titles to their name: the 1964 and 2008 European Championships. — Fifa