Spain has now lived out the ultimate dream, as overnight the side became crowned new champions of the world, after beating the Netherlands 1-0 in the 2010 FIFA World Cup final.
Ninety minutes of normal time could not separate the two and with just four minutes to go to penalties, pacey midfielder Andres Iniesta proved himself.
The nation heads into Euro 2012 in Poland and Ukraine as favourites to defend their title at $6 with SportsBet.
The Spanish travelled to South Africa as pre tournament favourites and despite an opening match loss to the Swiss, came back and added another single goal win to their previous four.
Ninety minutes of normal time could not separate the two sides, and with just four minutes to go until penalties would be called, pacey midfielder Andres Iniesta proved himself to the world on the grandest of global stages, as he converted the goal which took his nation all the way.
Over 84,000 fans packed out the stands at the Soccer City Stadium, and with a carnival like atmosphere cheered on the side which travelled to the tournament as favourites to take the title, and the Dutch who had exceeded expectations.
It was a match which saw too many cards – thirteen yellows, resulting in John Heitinga getting sent off, and added a sour note to the end of the tournament.
However, as the men in orange drowned their sorrows, all individually doubled over in obvious regret and grief, the Spaniards, led by an evidently proud skipper Iker Casillas lifted the World Cup to rapturous cheers from footballing fans around the world as they played some stunning football.
If you wagered on the 2010 World Cup – it is interesting to note Spain were odds on favourites to claim the title and so for those who placed a bet early on would have had a high payout, so make sure you head to SportsBet now, so you can make the most of upcoming tournaments to continue your world cup betting mentality!
