On July 11, 2010, Netherlands and Spain played for the final World Cup trophy in Johannesburg, South Africa. After a long month of watching 32 teams compete in exciting matches, two clubs that had never won a World Cup took the field Sunday.
Netherlands came into the match by winning all six of its matches including an impressive victory over number two ranked Brazil in the quarterfinals. Entering the tournament, the Netherlands' world ranking was fourth compared to Spain who was ranked second. The Spanish entered the competition by winning the European Championship in 2008, losing a group play match to Switzerland, and winning every game since that defeat.
On Sunday, Netherlands started the match as the underdog, and Spain was the favorite. The game sure started off that way. Fernando Torres of Spain did not start, but the Spanish players controlled most of the first half with ball possession, scoring chances, and passing percentage. However, it was an intense game from both sides as the two teams played with a do-or-die attitude. The winner was taking a plane ride home with a trophy, and the runner-up would be filled with disappointment.
After scoring just seven goals in the tournament, could Spain win another game by the score of 1-0? Spain has one of the toughest defenses in the world anchored by a phenomenal goalkeeper in Iker Casillas. Casillas kept the Spaniards in the match with some incredible saves including a lucky one off his foot.
Netherlands played their heart out, but Spain had the final say with Andres Iniesta's goal in the 116th minute (extra time). With four minutes left before penalty kicks, Torres crossed the ball right in front of the goal for Iniesta. All Iniesta had to do was to put the ball right past the keeper.
The match was rough. By the end of the first half, the referee had administered more yellow cards than there were shots on goal by either team. Each team played with purpose and gave an effort that this entire world will not forget.
Netherlands took home the silver. Spain, for the first time, took the gold, and the players will go home to their country proud with tears of happiness. If you thought this World Cup was exciting, just wait until 2014 when it comes to Brazil.
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