On Sunday, July 1st, Spain beat the Italians to win their second straight European Cup. Spain not only beat Italy but dominated them, flexing their muscle and scoring 4 goals. The win made gave Spain an unprecedented record of 42-3-4 in their last 49 games. They have won the last 3 major world tournaments, the 2008 Euro, the 2010 World Cup, and this year’s 2012 Euro.
The Spanish defense proved impossible for the Italians to crack. Italy only got off 6 shots on goal. Keeper Iker Casillas stopped a sure goal by blocking one of Antonio Di Natale’s shots at a very close proximity. Spain’s offense was by no means slacking. Goals were scored by David Silva, Jordi Alba, Fernando Torres, and Juan Mata. David Silva’s goal was scored in the 14th minute, heading in a cross from Cesc Fagregas. In the 41st minute, Jordi Alba scored on a perfect through ball from veteran teammate Xavi Hernandez. Fernando Torres, a sub for Fagregas, scored the third goal in the 75th minute. The final nail in the coffin came from Juan Mata off a pass from Torres.
Spain’s recent international winning streak has made people think that they are the best soccer team to ever play the game. Only 3 losses in their last 49 games is unheard of in international play. Spain is not a team of veterans that is on the decline. The average age of a Spanish play is about 27. The young players still have some good years left. Their next outing will be at the 2012 Summer Games in London. Based on their performance at the Euro Cup, it would be a shock to not see the Spaniards come up with the Gold Medal. A Gold at the Olympics and a win at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil would make this team of superstars the unanimous best team to ever play the game.