They were once the kings of the world, the greatest international team of the modern era. Spain, a symbol of fluid football, has been dethroned after losing 2-0 to Chile and, thusly, eliminated from Group B of the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
La Furia Roja’s well-documented Tiki Taka football was no match for Chile, who put in a sublime effort, one that highlighted the tenacity and flair that this South American side has in abundance. It was all over for Spain in the first half, after Eduardo Vargas picked up the ball in the box in the 23rd minute. He feigned a shot and sent Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas one way, before slotting home the ball to give Chile a 1-0 lead.
Later in the half, on the 43-minute mark, Chile struck again. This time, it was Charles Aranguiz who found the back of the net after Casillas punched the ball away instead of holding on to a cross. Aranguiz found himself with the ball at his feet and slipped the effort through the Spanish wall, giving them a 2-0 lead to hold onto in the second half.
Try as Spain might to find even one goal, Chile’s defense held firm, with Arturo Vidal’s defensive midfield role instrumental in holding off a Spanish forward line that featured the likes of Andres Iniesta, Pedro, Diego Costa and David Silva. Fernando Torres was introduced in the game to try and find a goal but he, too, could barely muster a chance.
So, with a 2-0 loss against Chile and a 5-1 rout suffered by the Netherlands, Spain has been mathematically eliminated from Group B, as has Australia, who nearly pulled off a result against Holland but lost their match 3-2. Chile and the Netherlands now advance regardless of what happens in game three of the group stage.
The list of iconic names is long for Spain: Xavi, Iniesta, David Villa, Torres, Xabi Alonso, Casillas, Sergio Ramos, Gerard Pique; these have been the prime examples for players in their respective positions. But, with a 2-0 loss to Chile, the old guard of Spain must now make room for the next generation, one that stars Cesc Fabregas, Koke, Javi Martinez, Pedro and may include some new faces like Iker Muniain and Jese Rodriguez.
Whether manager Vicente Del Bosque stays in charge remains to be seen, though he still has two years on his contract.
It’s the end of a footballing era – the reign of Spain is now officially over. There will be a new World Cup champion by tournament’s end. One thing is certain: you never know what will happen in Brazil! This has been an unpredictable World Cup from start to finish. Sit back, enjoy the ride, and soak in some of the finest football that’s been played in a long, long time.
