European champions Spain finally overcame its World Cup hoodoo this morning, lifting the coveted trophy for the first time after edging out the Netherlands 1-0 in a dramatic decider.
Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta was the hero, rifling a powerful volley across Dutch keeper Maarten Stekelenburg to break the deadlock on 116 minutes.
It was a heart-breaking finish for the Netherlands, which has now stumbled at the ultimate hurdle on three occasions, unable to improve on its 1974 and 1978 defeats in the final.
But for Spain, Iniesta's strike, which was crafted expertly by Cesc Fabregas, ended decades of disappointment as La Roja finally shed its under-achievers tag.
In a spiteful clash which produced 14 yellow cards, both sides had chances to snatch the lead in normal time but were unable to convert.
Netherlands danger man Arjen Robben had the best chance in the second half, but failed to poke his effort past Spanish shot stopper Iker Casillas.
Sergio Ramos and Fabregas could've both settled the match earlier for Spain before Iniesta's composed finish decided the outcome.
Source: The Canberra Times
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