¡¡Es España!!

Campeones de Europa 2008

Germany 0-1 Spain
link to goal:
Fernando Torres (33)

Spain has finally shaken their decades-long underacheiver tag with their first major trophy in 44 years. It is a far different Spain who celebrates tonight from the nation who won the European title in 1964 under the repressive fascist regime of General Francisco Franco -- a man who saw success in football as a utilitarian way to sow the superficial seeds of national unity. Tonight's win is the first under Spanish democracy, the notion of which was harmoniously reflected in the open, pass-oriented play the national side displayed throughout the Euro 2008 tournament. While they may not have been watching on big screens in the squares of the Basque city Bilbao or the Catalan capital Barcelona, you can bet that the majority of the citizens of even these separatist regions were glued to their TV sets to watch Catalan players (Xavi, Puyol, and Fabregas) join with Castillian players (Torres, Casillas) to cement the nation's place in football history.

Fernando Torres -- who's contributions have been questioned throughout Euro 2008 -- rose to the occasion on the biggest stage and scored the title winner when his nifty touch off a deft pass from Xavi allowed him to run past Philip Lahm and shoot over the charging Jens Lehmann for the match's lone goal. While Germany had the best opportunities in the first 15 minutes, Spain controlled the subsequent 75 with their fluid and creative attack. Though it may not have been the most exciting match to watch, only the most die-hard Gemany supporters will have felt that Spain were undeserved winners. Having won all of their contests in Euro 2008, La Furia Roja consistently showed they were the best side in the tournament with stylish, dynamic, and often impressive attacking play. On the cusp of 70 years, stubborn and controversial coach Luis Aragones rides off into the Spanish sunset (to his new post with Istanbul's Fenerbache) as European Champion -- his much-debated tactics now vindicated for posterity as a resounding success.

All of this is a happy development for those who enjoy the aesthetics of positive, open, free-flowing football. Finally the vibrant attacking team won over negativity, defensiveness, and pragmatism. As for the future, one only need look at the average age of the squad to know that Spain will be major contenders in World Cup 2010. ¡Viva España , Campeones de Europa!