KIEV: Spain confirmed their status as one of the greatest national teams in football history by overwhelming Italy 4-0 in Sunday’s Euro 2012 final in Kiev to retain their European crown.
Vicente del Bosque’s team became the first side to successfully defend a European Championship title, as well as the first to win three consecutive major tournaments after their triumphs at Euro 2008 and the 2010 World Cup.
Accused in some quarters of having lost their ability to excite, Spain produced a thrilling demonstration of attacking football to confirm beyond doubt that this remains a golden age for Spanish football.
Andres Iniesta and Xavi were the architects of victory at the Olympic Stadium, playing key roles in goals by David Silva, Jordi Alba and Fernando Torres, who teed up fellow substitute Juan Mata for Spain’s fourth.
“After we scored the first goal, Italy were dangerous, but we reacted well,” said Spain coach Del Bosque.
“We had possession of the ball, we put pressure on them, and there was depth to our play. So we’re very happy.
“This success in Spanish football is something historic, and now we have to look to the future and try to qualify for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.” The match-winner in the Euro 2008 decider against Germany, Torres became the first player to score in two European Championship finals, while it was the most handsome winning margin in a final in the tournament’s history.
New Straits Times , July 02,2012.
New Straits Times , July 02,2012.
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