Spain lifted the World Cup for the very first time – and so far only occasion in their history – in the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The 19th edition of the tournament was held in South Africa from June 11, 2010, with the final between Spain and the Netherlands played on July 11, 2010.
Spain topped Group H with six points. Despite losing their first game against Switzerland 0-1, they bounced back with 2-0 and 2-1 victories over Honduras and Chile respectively.
They took on Portugal in a heavyweight Round of 16 clash and came out on top 1-0 to progress to the quarters. They didn’t let a goal past them throughout the knockout stages as they followed up the win over Portugal with similar 1-0 wins against Paraguay and Germany in the quarters and semis.
The final against the Netherlands at Johannesburg too finished 1-0 in favour of Spain after extra time.
Having scored just eight goals through the 2010 World Cup, Spain set a new record for the fewest goals scored by a World Cup winning team. Their defence and goalkeeper did a splendid job, conceding just two goals and maintaining five clean sheets in seven matches.
Honours and Awards
Losing semi finalists Uruguay and Germany produced the best player of the tournament and the top goal scorer respectively.
Uruguay’s Diego Forlan (five goals) and Germany’s Thomas Muller (five goals, three assists) took the Golden Ball and Golden Boot. Muller was also named the Best Young Player.
Spain’s Iker Casillas deservedly took the Golden Glove as the best goalkeeper of the tournament.
Picture Credit : Google
