Sunday July 11, 2010 Final Finished Soccer City Stadium

Netherlands 0 - 1
AET Spain

  • Iniesta 116’

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  1. Spain crowned world champions

    Spain crowned world champions

    Andres Iniesta dramatically fired Spain to World Cup glory with the only goal of the game deep into extra-time against Netherlands. More

  • Live Commentary

    Time:120'
    • Netherlands
    • Spain
    • - What a dramatic ending to a fantastic tournament. Heartbreak for the Dutch, but utter elation for Spain, who take home the World Cup for the first time in their history.
    • 120' THERE IT IS! ALL OVER AT SOCCER CITY! AND SPAIN ARE WORLD CHAMPIONS! In the most dramatic of fashions, Vicente del Bosque's side add the World Cup to their European crown!
    • 120' Torres pulls up with his hamstring! Oh no! Disaster for the Liverpool man! Looks like it's gone again!
    • 120' Xavi kicks the ball away and gets booked... lost count now....
    • 120' Two minutes of added time to be played...
    • 117' The Dutch are furious, even though it was never offside... Mathijsen is booked for arguing... Iniesta too, for his celebrations...
    • 116' GOAL! GOAL! INIESTA PUTS SPAIN INTO THE LEAD AND ON THE VERGE OF WORLD CUP GLORY! Iniesta is played in by Fabregas and the Barcelona man finishes brilliantly!
    • 115' Sneijder takes it... deflected behind for a corner... no! A goal kick is given! That's a terrible decision.
    • 114' Netherlands win a free-kick... six minutes left... down to 10 men... surely not....
    • 113' Robben should be sent off here... he kicks the ball into the back of the net despite the whistle going... Webb uses common sense though and he stays on the field.
    • 112' Van der Wiel is the next to go into the book, for a trip on Iniesta...
    • 111' Heitinga becomes the fifth man to be sent off in a World Cup final.
    • 110' Xavi steps up to take the resulting free-kick... but it's over the bar.
    • 109' HEITINGA IS SENT OFF! He pulls back Iniesta as the Spain man looked to get onto Xavi's through pass... Netherlands down to 10 for the final 10 minutes!
    • 107' Good passing play from the Dutch... but Elia runs the ball out of play in the end.
    • 106' Here we go.... back underway at Soccer City!
    • 106' Spain make a change at the break... Villa for Torres... what can he do now?
    • 105' There goes the whistle! Just 15 minutes of the World Cup final remaining... still no goals.
    • 105' Just one minute to be added on at the end of the first period of extra time...
    • 105' Time for a Dutch change... Van Bronckhorst is taken off and Braafheid comes on.
    • 104' Lovely run forward by Fabregas... he beats four defenders before sliding a shot just wide of the mark!
    • 103' Don't forget you can follow our man in the stadium on the Early Boers Twitter feed
    • 101' The torment on each nation's fans is evident... Image: Spanish fans suffer
    • 100' Ooh! Another chance for Spain! Navas fires an early shot off which deflects off Van Bronckhorst and into the side netting!
    • 99' Netherlands make a change... Van der Vaart comes on for De Jong... the Dutch are going for it!
    • 98' Here come Spain again... Iniesta threatens but Van Bronckhorst makes a great saving tackle!
    • 96' Oooh! Mathijsen heads over the bar from a corner at the other end! It's really opening up now!
    • 95' FABREGAS! Chance to break the deadlock as he's played in on goal by Iniesta! But Stekelenburg makes a cracking save!
    • 93' Xavi sends over the resulting corner... Puyol reaches it, but Stekelenburg is able to claim...
    • 92' Fabregas is bowled over in the box... then Xavi goes over as he is about to shoot! Penalty shout! But Webb says no deal!
    • 91' Back underway at Soccer City!
    • 90'+3 There it is! All over in Johannesburg and the World Cup final is going to extra-time!
    • 90'+2 Sneijder goes for goal from fully 45 yards... he doesn't catch it at all right and the ball bounces tamely wide....
    • 90'+1 Extra-time is looming large... and then the prospective of the p-word.... gulp.
    • 90' Three minutes of added time to be played...
    • 89' Van Persie is flagged offside... he doesn't hear the whistle though and rolls the ball against the post....
    • 88' Capdevila crosses into the danger area... it's cleared and the Dutch can break with Robben.... but he can't quite keep it in play this time.
    • 87' Sneijder fires a free-kick straight into the Spanish player forming a one-man wall... he wants a re-take, Webb doesn't agree...
    • 86' Here is that change... Alonso off, Fabregas on.
    • 85' Spain look like they're about to make another change... Fabregas is ready to come on...
    • 84' Robben is angry at that decision... and Webb has enough of his protests and books him.
    • 83' Robben again hares off towards goal after Van Persie's flick on! He holds off Puyol but Casillas makes the save at his feet! Robben feels he should have a penalty but Webb doesn't agree!
    • 82' Into the final 10 minutes and extra-time is looming, unless a hero is out there...
    • 81' Robben is pulled up for a foul as Van der Vaart warms up on the touchline...
    • 80'' Lovely stuff by Iniesta... great turn and he's off into the box! But Sneijder does well to track back and make a crucial challenge! Image: Spanish fans watch the final
    • 78' Howard Webb has more work to do now after Iniesta lashes out at Van Bommel... replays show the Dutchman to have left his foot in earlier.... Webb decides to take no action...
    • 77' RAMOS! Oh dear, what a miss! It's a free header from the corner... he has to score! But he sends it over the bar! One gilt-edged chance each now...
    • 77' Villa shoots on goal again after having been played in by Xavi! But it's deflected wide of the mark!
    • 76' Villa pops up at the back stick but again his volley is off target... this time it flies well over the bar!
    • 75' Webb gets some abuse from Sneijder now... the referee gives it back with interest and the Dutch player nods meekly.
    • 74' Villa sends a free-kick over the bar... disappointing considering the decent position he was in...
    • 72' The game is suddenly far more alive... we could yet have a decisive goal before the end of normal time...
    • 71' Van Persie looks to give Elia an early touch... but it doesn't reach the Hamburg flyer...
    • 70' Kuyt's number is up... he is replaced by Elia...
    • 69' VILLA! MUST BE! NO! How does that not end up in the back of the net?! Navas skins Van Bronckhorst before firing across the face of goal... Heitinga makes a mess of it and it falls to Villa at the back stick! But Heitinga recovers to make a crucial block and the ball loops up over the bar!
    • 68' Villa is flagged offside... replays show him to have been level... dare we say that was a poor decision from the English lino?
    • 67' Van Persie is away here... but he's tripped at the last by Capdevila, who picks up a caution...
    • 66' Oh, the ball nearly falls to Iniesta in the Dutch box! But it doesn't come to anything..
    • 65' The game's more open now... holes are appearing since the break...
    • 64' Torres is still warming up... reckon he wants a game?
    • 63' Heitinga fires well over from the resulting corner... will the Dutch live to rue that chance...?
    • 62' ROBBEN'S THROUGH ON GOAL! MUST BE! Sneijder plays him clean through on goal! No! Casillas sticks out a leg and the Dutch are denied! That has to go down as a bad miss...
    • 61' Kuyt's cross finds Van Persie.... but the Arsenal man can't direct his header on target...
    • 60' Here comes the first change of the night... Pedro is brought off... and Jesus Navas comes on. Still no Torres...
    • 59' Spain have been awarded only three yellow cards. Only Korea DPR (2) saw fewer yellows. Holland and Chile lead all nations on 15.
    • 58' Robben delivers a free-kick into the Spain box now... the whistle goes again though...
    • 57' With Alonso having put the ball out so Villa could get treament, Van Bommel gives the ball back to the Spanish, but the way he does it angers Del Bosque, who applauds the Bayern sarcastically.
    • 56' Villa hits the deck under a strong challenge by Heitinga... and the Everton man goes into the book.
    • 55' Xavi goes for goal from the resulting free-kick! But his effort hits the side netting, with Stekelenburg not looking too concerned about it...
    • 54' Ramos wins a free-kick as Van Bronckhorst blocks off his run... and the Dutch skipper is booked.
    • 52' Mathijsen does well to close the door on Villa... and Stekelenburg completes the clearance...
    • 51' Torres is off the bench and warming up... could there be a change in the offing?
    • 50' Van Persie lays off for Van der Wiel who centres into a dangerous area... Casillas lets it go and there's no one there in orange to finish off!
    • 49' Alonso and Van Bommel collide as the former looks to get the by-line... goal kick is the call...
    • 48' Puyol rises to meet the corner, semi-final-style! But he doesn't get great contact on the ball... still it falls to Capdevila at the back stick! But he fluffs his lines and mis-kicks completely!
    • 48' Spain have started in far more determined mood here... they win the first corner of the second period!
    • 47' Iniesta touches on for Xavi... but he can't quite get there this time...
    • 46' Back underway at Soccer City!
    • - We'll use the half-time break to let you know the answer to our final World Cup Venn brainteaser... the teams were, of course, Brazil, Germany, France and Argentina. And the link? At least one of the four teams has been in every single World Cup final right from the very first tournament - until tonight. As well as providing at least one of the finalists every four years, on 12 occasions the four sides have provided both finalists. Answer here!
    • 45'+2 There goes the half-time whistle... and it's goalless at the break in the World Cup final!
    • 45'+1 ROBBEN! Ooh! He comes inside Capdevila and fires on target! Casillas is forced into saving low to his left!
    • 44' Two minutes of injury time to be played...
    • 44' It's been a real niggly first half... so many fouls, five bookings and few moments of real class...
    • 43' Alonso fires the resulting free-kick on goal... but he's miles away from goal and the ball bounces wide of the mark.
    • 42' Sneijder catches Busquets and Howard Webb has a word with the Dutchman... but no card this time...
    • 41' Alonso's final ball is poor now and another Spanish move breaks down...
    • 40' Xavi delivers the free-kick... Puyol nearly gets there, but Heitinga meets it and the Dutch clear.
    • 39' Van Bommel again unpends Xavi... he's walking a tightrope now he's been booked.
    • 38' Spain break forward and Pedro fires on goal from distance! But it's wide of the mark and Stekeleburg isn't unduly troubled...
    • 37' Sneijder takes it.... it goes to the edge of the box to Van Bommel who fires into the mixer.... it comes to Mathijsen! But the defender swings and misses! Pretty embarassing for him....
    • 36' Here goes Robben, in between two Spanish players... and Netherlands go on to win a corner!
    • 35' Again very sportingly, Van Persie plays the corner straight to Casillas who grabs onto the ball this time! Wonder which end his girlfriend is stationed at tonight?
    • 34' Ooh! What's Casillas doing? As the ball is played back to him - sportingly by the Dutch - he misjudges it and the ball bounces up over him! He gets a slight touch on it and the ball goes wide of his post for a corner! Bizarre!
    • 34' Casillas claims a long ball forward, but in doing so clatters into Puyol, who hits the deck. The ball is put out so the Barcelona man can receive treatment.
    • 33' Spain are playing the ball around in customary fashion... but the move breaks down and Robben can break now... Busquets fouls and Netherlands have a free-kick.
    • 32' The game needs a moment of magic for it to catch alight now...
    • 31' Spain have had 56 per cent of possession so far...
    • 30' So, half an hour played and still goalless... it's a tactical battle alright...
    • 29' That was possibly Webb's first mistake of the evening... replays don't do De Jong any favours...
    • 28' Oh dear, that's another awful challenge, this time by De Jong who karate kicks Alonso in the chest! He could be off here... no, Webb brandishes a fifth yellow... and the Manchester City man can count himself lucky still to be on the pitch!
    • 26' The Dutch are slowly getting themselves back into the game... Spain have offered little in the final third over the past 10 minutes...
    • 25' Sneijder can become the first ever player to win a treble (European Cup/Champions League and domestic double) and world title in the same season.
    • 24' Casillas claims the free-kick with a magnificent leap...
    • 23' Kuyt looks to be tripped by Ramos as he threatens to hare away down the Dutch left... yellow for Ramos - the fourth of the game so far, although none can be debated.
    • 22' There it is! A booking for Van Bommel! And fully deserved, for a terrible challenge from behind on Iniesta...
    • 21' Sneijder takes it... Ramos heads clear at the back stick... but this is better from the Dutch!
    • 20' Here come the Dutch again though... Robben gets past Alonso and nearly beats Capdevila... corner to Netherlands!
    • 19' Netherlands are just looking to build something from the back now... Sneijder looks for the run of Van Persie, but it's not his best ball...
    • 18' Sneijder goes for goal! But Casillas is able to gather without the ball bouncing...
    • 17' Puyol goes in on Robben from behind... and Howard Webb produces the second card of the evening... Free-kick to Netherlands... Sneijder over it.... Image: Webb books Puyol
    • 16' The Dutch are yet to settle into any sort of rhythm... and that Van Persie challenge was symptomatic of his team's frustrations...
    • 15' Van Persie clatters into Capdevila... and that will be the first yellow card of the night.
    • 14' Van Bommel makes his first indiscretion of the day - a push on Puyol.... the first of many?
    • 13' Pedro is roaming all over the front line at the moment... right, left, middle... he's everywhere!
    • 12' VILLA! Oooh! The diminutive striker lashes a back post volley into the side netting! Spain well on top so far....
    • 11' Great stuff from Spain... Ramos tricks his way past Kuyt before letting fly! But his effort from a tight angle is going wide... Heitings puts behind for a corner anyway! Image: Ramos rues the missed chance
    • 10' Spain on top so far.... as expected, they're enjoying more possession than their opponents.
    • 9' Xavi looks to feed Villa again... this time he is onside... but the ball bounces into the arms of Stekelenburg without the new Barcelona boy being able to get on the end of it.
    • 8' Capdevila moves forward with intent... but Mathijsen is aware to the danger...
    • 7' Busquets plays a weak pass and Kuyt has a chance to shoot on target! But he scuffs it slightly and Casillas claims the speculative effort easily.
    • 6' Villa is caught offside for a second time tonight... both decision have been close, but correct.
    • 5' Oooh! Xavi delivers a great free-kick into the box where Ramos plants a diving header on target! Stekelenburg seems to see it late but he recovers to make a tremendous save! So near to the opener!
    • 5' Ramos now goes down... this time it's Van Bronckhorst with the foul... Van Bommel still to commit a foul...
    • 4' Kuyt gets his first touch... but it's a pass all the way back to his keeper Stekelenburg...
    • 3' Pedro links up with Ramos on the Spain right... but the latter's cross into the middle is dealt with by the Dutch defence.
    • 2' Here come Spain on their first foray forward... Pedro tumbles, but there's no free-kick this time.
    • 1' Van Persie is pulled up for an early foul on Busquets... referee Webb decides a free-kick will suffice.
    • 1' Kuyt immediately looks to run onto a ball forward, but he gives up the chase soon enough and the ball bounces out for a goal kick.
    • 1' Here we go! Underway at Soccer City! The World Cup final is finally upon us!
    • 19:29 Iker Casillas and Giovanni van Bronckhorst toss up in the centre circle and it will be the Oranje to kick off.
    • 19:28 Netherlands are in their traditional all orange kit tonight. Spain are in their away kit of blue shirts and blue shorts.
    • 19:25 Here come the national anthems... the Dutch players are not the most tuneful singers ever heard... the Spanish don't sing at all.
    • 19:24 Sepp Blatter and Jacob Zuma are led down the line to meet the players... a few jeers ring out, no doubt for Blatter, rather than the president of South Africa.
    • 19:23 Out walks Howard Webb, past a gleaming trophy which is on a stand on the halfway line... Image: Webb leads the teams out
    • 19:22 The teams are in the tunnel.... the Dutch look relaxed, as do the Spanish. Everyone seems excited about making that walk into the stadium...
    • 19:20 Fabio Cannavaro is out on the pitch, saying a very public goodbye to the trophy Italy won four years ago.
    • 19:20 Wesley Sneijder is also on five goals - two goals short of equalling Johnny Rep as Holland’s all-time World Cup top scorer on seven goals. But should neither score tonight, Thomas Mueller will claim the prize, having also got five goal but laid on more assists than either Villa or Sneijder.
    • 19:20 Ten minutes and counting... Only three players have scored for Spain this tournament (Villa, Iniesta and Puyol). The lowest number of goalscorers for a World Cup winning side is four - Italy in 1938 and England in 1966. In 2006, Italy had a record 10 different goalscorers. Villa is in line for Golden Boot with five goals though.
    • 19:15 Fans have been left thrilled by the appearance of Nelson Mandela earlier... More here
    • 19:10 Spain have been awarded the most penalties at World Cups, 16 in total. Until this World Cup they had not missed one, but David Villa and Xabi Alonso have both failed to score from the penalty spot in South Africa.
    • 19:05 Reader Stu says: "Capdevila I think is Spain's only weakness! If Robben can get past him then he'll cause Spain a lot of problems!"
    • 19:00 Spain are only the second team in World Cup history to reach the final after collecting three consecutive 1-0 wins in the KO stage. Germany did this in 2002 (Paraguay, USA and South Korea).
    • 18:55 Heading into the game, Netherlands are, along with Czechoslovakia and Hungary, the only nations to have finished runners-up twice without ever winning the World Cup. Only one country has more runners-up finishes. Germany have finished second four times (1966, 1982, 1986 and 2002). Image: More Dutch fans
    • 18:50 Netherlands and Spain both turned in a perfect qualification campaign for the 2010 World Cup, winning eight and 10 matches in qualifying. Brazil (1970) and West Germany (1982) recorded the only previous perfect WCQ campaigns of at least five matches. Both countries also went on to reach the World Cup final, with Brazil winning in '70.
    • 18:45 The head-to-head record between these countries is four Dutch wins, four Spanish victories and one draw in nine previous meetings.
    • 18:40 Hordes of orange-clad Dutch fans and red-bedecked Spaniards have batteled it out to see who could sing the loudest, drink the most and dress the silliest for the World Cup final. More here
    • 18:35 Nelson Mandela is at Soccer City... and Early Boers reliably informs us that he has never witnessed such a reception before... Image: Mandela greets his people
    • 18:30 Netherlands coach Bert van Marwijk restores right back Gregory van der Wiel and holding midfielder Nigel de Jong to his starting XI after the pair were suspended for the 3-2 semi-final victory over Uruguay. They replace Khalid Boulahrouz and Demy de Zeeuw respectively, who drop to the bench.
    • 18:25 As expected, Spain coach Vicente del Bosque leaves Fernando Torres out of his starting line-up, replacing the misfiring striker with Pedro for a second straight match. Torres, who returned from knee surgery shortly before the tournament in South Africa and has not scored in six appearances, lost his place to Pedro in the semi-final against Germany and came off the bench late in the second half.
    • 18:20 And, of course, tonight's referee is Howard Webb.
    • 18:15 Spain: 1-Iker Casillas; 15-Sergio Ramos, 3-Gerard Pique, 5-Carles Puyol, 11-Joan Capdevila; 14-Xabi Alonso, 8-Xavi, 6-Andres Iniesta, 16-Sergio Busquets; 18-Pedro, 7-David Villa.
    • 18:15 The teams are in... Netherlands: 1-Maarten Stekelenburg; 2-Gregory van der Wiel, 3-John Heitinga, 4-Joris Mathijsen, 5-Giovanni van Bronckhorst; 7-Dirk Kuyt, 6-Mark van Bommel, 10-Wesley Sneijder, 8-Nigel de Jong, 11-Arjen Robben; 9-Robin van Persie.
    • 18:00 An hour and a half to go... a bunch of elephants are now on the pitch, according to a tweet from Dom Fifield...
    • 17:55 "Please refrain from using your vuvuzelas during the performance." Fat chance. Early Boers tells us that the atmosphere is incredible.
    • 17:50 Shakira is doing her thang - she's really small apparently.
    • 17:45 Early Boers tweets from the ground: "Been defeated by Shakira. Pavlovian response now to smile every time song comes on. FIFA endorsed happiness." More here
    • 17:40 Sky Sports News have posted a reporter out to Amsterdam, where fans whipped out a cheap-looking plastic replica of the World Cup trophy for the cameras before jumping up and down and shouting a lot. The reporter was moved to say: "It doesn't get much better than that in Amsterdam", which is a rather damning indictment of the city...
    • 17:35 Dutch fans are creating a sea of orange back home in Amsterdam with supporters cramming the streets and police looking into setting up roadblocks.
    • 17:30 It you like omens, how about this one: Tour de France rider Samuel Sanchez beat Robert Gesink into second place on today's stage eight. The Spaniard finished 10 seconds ahead of his Dutch rival in third... Tour de France report
    • 17:25 Another reader James has ultimate faith in Paul the Octopus: "Paul said Spain would win so I put a 10 Million Pound bet on Spain to win."
    • 17:20 Reader Anon says: "Spain will win. Absolutely everyone is predicting this. It is impossible for Holland to win. It is just like in the semi final when all the experts, pundits and everyone expected Germany to beat Spain!"
    • 17:15 Europe are guaranteed to win the World Cup and it will be the 10th World Cup for a European nation. UEFA takes a 10-9 advantage against the CONMEBOL and it is the first time Europe leads the series since 1958, when Brazil wiped out Europe's last lead.
    • 17:10 Forget Paul the octopus - in Africa only animal bones can accurately predict the outcome of big matches like the World Cup final between Spain and the Netherlands, according to South African President Jacob Zuma. More here
    • 17:05 Our man in South Africa has made it into the stadium. Quite how is anyone's guess, but he'll be there tweeting throughout the game. Follow Early Boers on Twitter
    • 17:00 So, Spain look set to name an unchanged side, with Pedro retaining his place in the side and Fernando Torres settling for a place on the bench. The Dutch are likely to bring back Gregory van der Wiel and Nigel de Jong from suspension at the expense of Khalid Boulahrouz and Demy de Zeeuw.
    • 16:55 Netherlands have won their last 10 matches and are unbeaten for 25 (both Dutch records). Last defeat was against Australia (1-2) in a 6 September 2008 friendly in Eindhoven, the only defeat by the Dutch national team under current head coach Bert van Marwijk.
    • 16:50 Supporters continue to pour into Soccer City. The Dutch are as colourful as usual. Image: Gandalf is a Netherlands fan
    • 16:45 Reader Amine asks: "The line-up has not been confirmed, why do they put it anyway?" It's a predicted starting line-up...
    • 16:40 Less than three hours to go before the big kick-off... The Daily Mail's Ian Ladyman has tweeted that the media centre at Soccer City was already packed three hours ago...
    • 16:35 No European nation has ever won the World Cup outside of Europe.
    • 16:30 This is the first ever World Cup final without Argentina, Brazil, Italy or (West) Germany. Netherlands or Spain will become the eighth world champions following Brazil (5), Italy (4), Germany (3), Argentina (2), Uruguay (2), England (1) and France (1).
    • 16:25 There are even some Burnley fans there! Image: Clarets on tour in SA!
    • 16:20 Fans have been gathering at Soccer City for some time now... it's a carnival atmosphere apparently. Image: Dutch fan enjoying herself in Johannesburg
    • 16:15 Joachin Loew is set for a prestigious national award, according to German newspaper Bild. The Mannschaft boss will be awarded the country's Federal Cross of Merit for his achievements in the World Cup.
    • 16:10 But the best one has to be Howard Webb to 'do a Graham Poll' and show three yellow cards to one player (66/1).
    • 16:05 There are some interesting officiating specials on offer at a leading bookmaker - any manager to be sent to the stands (20/1), any player to be sent off (5/2), any player to be booked for simulation (4/1), Howard Webb to fall over in active play (10/1) and Webb to leave the field of play and be replaced through injury (33/1).
    • 15:55 Paris also tells us that she's had an amazing body wrap, massage and an "African Goddess Facial". Was it Cristiano Ronaldo who got her into that kind of thing?
    • 15:50 Paris Hilton's Twitter feed informs us that she is on her way to the stadium. Oh dear.
    • 15:45 Mandela's grandson said: "He's going to rest and try and get some energy for tonight." More here
    • 15:40 A final between the Netherlands and Spain was predicted as the second most likely final before the tournament began by the Euro Club Index methodology developed by Infostrada Sports and Hypercube. The model predicts a 52% chance that Spain will win the World Cup with 48% chance that the Dutch will be World Champions.
    • 15:35 More on that Nelson Mandela story now... indications are that he now wants to attend tonight's final to greet his people, according to his grandson.
    • 15:30 Mawhinney added: "So I would hope that he will announce now that he is retiring a number of those players from international duty and commit to developing a newer, younger squad that can be trained up for the European Championships in 2012 and the World Cup again in 2014."
    • 15:25 Former Football League chairman Lord Mawhinney has urged Fabio Capello to retire several of England's ageing players following the disappointing World Cup campaign. "I think Fabio should be encouraged to recognise that a number of the present team are going to be past their peak by the European Championships in 2012," Mawhinney told BBC Radio Five Live's Sportsweek programme.
    • 15:20 OptaJean continues to produce the goods on Twitter: "1.2 - Spain have only scored 1.2 goals per game, their worst ratio at a #worldcup since 1982 (0.8 goals per game). Edge."
    • 15:00 News of the World's Neil Ashton on Twitter: "Looks like Spain team want to beat the Joburg traffic. They're leaving for soccer city at 5:30pm."
    • 14:40 InfostradaLive: "The only other World Cup final on 11 July was 28 years ago when the 1982 WC in Spain climaxed with Italy's 3-1 win over West Germany"
    • 14:25 Midfielder Diego Perez, unlike the confident Jorge Fucile, believes there's room for improvement if Uruguay are to better their fourth place finish: "It is a strange feeling: we played well, we scored twice, like against the Netherlands, and we still lost," said the Monaco hardman. "However, Uruguay displayed in these two matches that it has made progress, that it can keep the ball and use it, but there are still a few things missing to make us a complete side."
    • 14:15 Here's a couple more of your predictions. Netherlands fans, what do you think?
    • - jonoram: "GO SPAIN! 2-1"
    • - Joe: "Holland 2 - Spain 0"
    • 14:10 Jorge Fucile insists his country's fourth place finish is just the beginning of a new era in Uruguayan football. "I am proud of what we have achieved here, we were up to the challenge, among the best four teams," said Fucile. "However, as we saw against the Germans the difference between us and the historically successful teams is that they have the ice cold temperament and this little bit extra that edges them past sides like us."
    • 14:00 Here's the inside track from a handful of Spain and Holland fans in South Africa. Orange and red armies battle to be best
    • 13:45 For all the latest World Cup news in manageable 140-character snippets, follow Eurosport's reporters on Twitter: @EurosportWCup @EarlyBoers and @alex__chick
    • 13:40 Early Boers on Twitter: "Just come out of Sony 3D screening. Visual barrage reminiscent of aversion therapy scene in Clockwork Orange. Jury still out 3D football"
    • 13:30 The Times' football correspondent on Twitter: "Idea of Fifa "pressure" on Mandela is deplorable. But if he IS willing/able to attend World Cup final, it would be wonderful"
    • 13:15 World Cup star Mesut Ozil has pledged his future to Werder Bremen despite being linked to a big money move to a top European club. "Bremen want me to fulfil the contract and so do I," the German told Bild. "I have always said that I want to fulfil my contract, that is important to me."
    • 13:05 The focus may now be on Holland and Spain but France, after their farcical campaign, still manage to create headlines. Midfielder Jeremy Toulalan has admitted his part in Les Bleus' boycott in South Africa. More here.
    • 12:55 PATRICIA M comments: "Without all that Nelson Mandela has done for South Africa they would never have hosted the World Cup. So, we should certainly honour this grand old man's massive contribution to his country's growth and welfare, but, far more importantly, respect his, and his family's, privacy at a time of great personal grief. Well said, Mandla Mandela."
    • 12:52 12 nations have now been represented in thefinal, with Spain the latest addition to the list. Nine of the 12 come from Europe.
    • 12:50 In case you missed our lead story on Nelson Mandela, here it is again for you. Mandela 'pressured' to attend final
    • 12:40 Early Boers, soon returning to its native land, has filed today's blog and takes a look at who should win tonight's final. It's a case of history v reality...
    • 12:30 And while there may be 100,000 watching in the centre of Amsterdam, more than 700 million are expected to tune in to the World Cup final worldwide.
    • 12:20 More than 100,000 people are expected to descend on the centre of Amsterdam today to watch the Oranje's attempt for a first World Cup.
    • 12:10 Oscar Tabarez says he would like to stay on as Uruguay coach after guiding them to a fourth place finish in South Africa. "I am nearer to the end of my career than the beginning, but I feel fine physically," said Tabarez. "It would interest me to continue with Uruguay, but it is not the time to be speaking about that."
    • 12:05 FIFA president Sepp Blatter jumped to the defence of the 2010 World Cup after criticism about empty seats and poor refereeing standards. Full story
    • 12:00 Germany boss Joachim Loew says he has no regrets about leaving Miroslav Klose on the bench and denying the striker the chance to equal or surpass Ronaldo's World Cup scoring record. More here
    • 11:55 Here's a handful of your predictions:
    • - ElMadrid: "Spain 1-0 Netherlands. I predict a game very similar to the Germany - Spain semi"
    • - jimoh: "The only way to beat Spain is to play dirty, as long as you want to play to win, Spain will always defeat you. As far as possession football is all about, only Chile would have done Spain but as you can see the Chilean's are watching from the television. Ole"
    • - Sepehr: "Spain lost to a weak team Switzerland and they are blind in front of goal they only score 7 goals they will be crushed by the Netherlands"
    • 11:50 Daily Telegraph football correspondent Henry Winter on Twitter: "World Cup closing ceremony features Shakira, 3 fighter jets & 13 replica elephants (not simultaneously). Broadcast to 215 countries (5.30uk)
    • 11:40 OptaJoe on Twitter: "25 - Xavi has created 25 goalscoring chances at the 2010 World Cup - eight more than any other player. Puppeteer."
    • 11:35 More from van Persie: "It’s always a bit strange to play against your colleagues [Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas], and we have been in touch via SMS a couple of times. Cesc is a fantastic player. I also find it really strange that he isn’t in the first team for Spain. I don't understand that at all. I think he’s incredible. I’ve been playing at Arsenal for six years with him and every year he’s improved. He’s the captain of our team and I have a lot of respect for him."
    • 11:30 Holland striker Robin van Persie is playing the underdog card ahead of tonight's final."I think Spain are slight favourites in this match because they were European champions two years ago and they just have a very good group," the Arsenal man told FIFA.com "But we have that as well."
    • 11:25 The German newspapers were full of praise for their young troops after securing third place last night. Have a look at the headlines here.
    • 11:15 StatManJon: "Warning to David Villa and Wesley Sneijder: The Golden Boot winner has been a World Cup winner on only five occasions."
    • 11:05 Half A Brain's prediction: "This is gonna be a very boring game and Holland will win it 1-0. You heard it here first."
    • 11:00 One may think Ronaldo would be keen to hang on to his record, but the Brazilian insists he was gunning for Klose, stranded on 14 goals but ruled out with a back complaint, to deliver. "Congratulations to Klose, to score 14 goals at the World Cup is fantastic. It's sad that he did not play on Saturday," said Ronaldo. "I was not opposed to him breaking my record. I have made my history. Now it is time for others to write their stories."
    • 10:50 Germany striker Miroslav Klose missed the opportunity to surpass Ronaldo's all-time World Cup scoring record [of 15] after sitting out last night's play-off with injury. "He really wanted to play, but after training on Saturday he said to me that would not be able to take his place in the team," said Germany coach Joachim Loew, who drafted Cacau into the starting 11. "He was disappointed but he knew that we couldn't allow a player who was only 80 per cent fit to take part."
    • 10:45 Master Jamie comments: "What a fantastic final it's going to be, where both countries have never won the world cup before. As an Arsenal fan, and having Arsenal players playing for both countries, I couldn't possibly predict who is going to win. So good luck to both Holland and Spain, no matter who wins or loses, you both thoroughly deserve to be in the final."
    • 10:35 This morning's newspapers are awash with orange and red. Check out our daily World Cup Paper Round. This way, please.
    • 10:25 The grandson of Nelson Mandela has claimed FIFA have put "extreme pressure" on the former South African president to attend tonight's World Cup final. Full story
    • 10:15 So our Armchair Pundit has asked whether this has been a good World Cup - what's your opinion? Post your thoughts in the comments section below.
    • 10:10 Ade comments: "As a Liverpool fan and a follower of Barca. I hope Spain wins. If Spain wins FOOTBALL wins."
    • 10:05 Germany's Thomas Muller and Uruguay's Diego Forlan also have five goals to their name, so if it's a tie after tonight's final, the Golden Boot winner is decide by the player with the most assists.
    • 10:00 The winner of the Golden Boot will also be decided tonight, with Spain hot shot David Villa and Holland maestro Wesley Sneijder set to go head-to-head with five goals apiece. Click here for the full standings.
    • 09:55 Eurosport reader abc123 is not confident after Iker Casillas' admission of nerves: "Being nervous is not a good sign. That's why Holland will win, they can handle pressure much better than Spain. And lets not forget, this is not the Olympics, here 2nd, 3rd or 4th place means nothing, the winner takes all." Can Spain handle the pressure?
    • 09:50 Everyone has their favourite World Cup memories, but will this tournament go down in history? Armchair Pundit Alex Chick answers the question.
    • 09:45 So after 30 days, 30 sad goodbyes, 63 matches and a million storylines, this is it – the game that will bring four years of joy and an eternal place in history. Yahoo reporter Martin Rogers picks out five things to watch for in tonight's final.
    • 09:35 Last night's third place play-off was a goal-fest and the signs are good for the same tonight. The historical goal average of a World Cup final is 3.8!
    • 09:30 It's World Cup final day, and therefore the end of our odyssey of World Cup quizzing. Don't miss out on today's World Cup Venn.
    • 09:22 StatManJon: "England scored just three goals, their worst return since their first World Cup finals, in 1950."
    • 09:20 It's just not on the pitch that Holland and Spain do battle. Hordes of orange-clad Dutch fans and red-bedecked Spaniards were battling it out in Johannesburg to see who could sing the loudest, drink the most and dress the silliest ahead of the showdown. Full story
    • 09:10 As the tournament draws to a close, so does our countdown of daily events in World Cup history. Today we look at England's disappointing 1966 opener, Paolo Rossi's 1982 heroics and Ronaldo's ill-health the night before the 1998 final.
    • 09:00 And the former England captain also picked his World Cup dream team...
    • 08:55 Earlier this week, David Beckham backed Spain to lift the trophy. See what else the England legend had to say.
    • 08:50 Having captained Italy to victory at the 2006 World Cup, Fabio Cannavaro will be at the today's final as a spectator to hand the baton to a new champion. "It feels really good to be here," Cannavaro told FIFA.com. "The final will be really emotional because we’re going to hand over the trophy that we’ve cherished for the last four years.”
    • 08:40 Here's more reaction from Joachim Loew.
    • 08:30 For all the latest pictures from South Africa, click here.
    • 08:25 StatManJon on Twitter: "The five goals in the 3/4th game last night was the most in that fixture since 1986"
    • 08:15 A new champion will be crowned tonight and Bert van Marwijk, Xavi and Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger look ahead to the final in his video.
    • 08:05 Xavi has admitted misfiring Spain, who despite their attacking prowess have scored just eight goal in six matches, need to find their killer touch if they are to win the World Cup. Full story
    • 08:00 Soccer City head groundsman Juane Klingbiel has declared himself a happy man ahead of the World Cup final. "I think it is one of the best pitches I have ever seen," said Klingbiel. "Ball roll, firmness and everything is excellent and I'm very happy. It's even better than [I could have hoped for the final]. The feedback from all the teams has been brilliant and I'm going to sleep each night with a smile."
    • 07:50 Holland has produced some truly world class coaches and players through the years, but the Oranje have never won the World Cup and current boss Bert van Marwijk is ready to make history.
    • 07:45 At least one English team will be contesting the final - referee Howard Webb and his two assistants Mike Mullarkey and Darren Cann. But Webb insists he's not the star of the show. "One thing this tournament has demonstrated quite clearly is the importance of teamwork," he said. "The three officials taking charge of every game know that one mistake can cost the entire team and mean the end of your ambitions and we rely on each other."
    • 07:30 So just how does a coach prepare for a World Cup final? Answer: take your players to the zoo. At least that's what Bert van Marwijk has done.
    • 07:20 For all the key facts and figures ahead of the World Cup final, come this way!
    • 07:15 Spain may be European champions but keeper Iker Casillas admits La Furia Roja have been suffering from nerves in South Africa: "We've felt a bit anxious all the way through the tournament, even the early matches," said the Real Madrid stopper. "This is a very important match - the most important of our careers - and we do feel nervous."
    • 07:10 Joachim Loew declared himself an "incredibly proud" man - and rightly so. Read Loew's reaction here.
    • 07:07 This tournament marks the fourth time three-time champions Germany have claimed third at the World Cup - and their 11th 'podium' finish. Armchair Pundit Alex Chick is mightily impressed.
    • 07:05 A quick look back to last night, when Germany capped a fine tournament by coming from behind to beat Uruguay 3-2 in a thrilling third place play-off. Match report: Khedira header hands Germany third place
    • 07:00 Good morning - happy World Cup final day! This is what we have been building up to over the past five weeks or, in fact, since Italy lifted the trophy four years ago. No azzurri tonight though, it's Holland v Spain and we will be bringing you all the build-up throughout the day.
    • 22:40 Good night and join us tomorrow morning from 8am when World Cup final day is upon us.
    • 22:30 Here are the latest updates from Port Elizabeth. Germany certainly don't lack fight. Germans fight back to finish third again
    • 22:20 Here are the stats from Germany's win. Uruguay v Germany match statistics
    • 22:00 Who says third means nothing - here is the reaction in Germany to tonight's game German fans party
    • 21:45 Wesley Sneijder and David Villa are in the running for Golden Boot tomorrow. They are on five with Diego Forlan and Thomas Mueller, who both scored tonight. At the moment though Thomas Mueller would take it as he has the most assists which is the tie-breaker.
    • 21:30 Did you know that the Netherlands have been the unofficial world champions for a long time? And they can claim the real thing tomorrow. Learn more here. Unofficial Football World Championships
    • 21:20 Well Octopus Paul has continued his 100 per cent record at the World Cup as Germany have beaten Uruguay in the third-place play-off. Good news for Spain - his pick for tomorrow. Khedira header hands Germany third place
    • 21:00 Netherlands coach Bert van Marwijk was giving very little away in his final press conference before the World Cup final. You can watch Watch his press conference
    • 20:50 There is only one way to play a final and that is to win it, Netherlands captain Giovanni van Bronckhorst said on the eve of Sunday's World Cup spectacular against Spain. Van Bronckhorst convinced Dutch will prevail
    • 20:40 Spain's success in the World Cup has highlighted the kind of deep political divisions which mean that some Spanish residents will be cheering on Netherlands in Sunday's final. Spanish success raises nationalist hackles
    • 20:30 It is time for Spain to take their place at the top of world soccer by beating the Netherlands in Sunday's World Cup final, midfielder Xavi said on the eve of the clash. Time for Spain to gain top spot says Xavi
    • 20:20 Spain have not prepared a specific plan to counter in-form Netherlands midfielder Wesley Sneijder in Sunday's World Cup final, coach Vicente del Bosque has said No specific anti-Sneijder plan, says Del Bosque
    • 20:10 One big name player who did not make the World Cup was AC Milan striker Alexandre Pato and the Brazilian has now said that he won't be going to Chelsea either
    • 20:00 Some 14 African presidents, a king, a queen, a prince and an emir are expected to attend Sunday's World Cup final between Spain and the Netherlands. Check out the guest list
    • 19:50 Germany have gone 1-0 up against Uruguay which is bad news for the Netherlands. Why? Because Octopus Paul has gone for a Germany-Spain double this weekend and the World Cup's greatest pundit remains on course for a perfect tournament. Octopus backs Spain to lift trophy
    • 19:25 Remember text commentary on the Germany v Uruguay is available with us. Germany v Uruguay
    • 19:20 The German players seem to be in a relaxed mood ahead of the match. Image: German players share a joke.
    • 19:05 South African president Jacob Zuma has said the people are the champions of the tournament. Zuma says South African people are true champions
    • 18:50 Forlan, Mueller and Klose are joint-second in the tournament scoring charts with four goals and have a chance to win the Golden Boot if they can net twice in Port Elizabeth. Dutchman Wesley Sneijder and Spain's David Villa lead with five.
    • 18:45 Uruguay include in-form marksman Diego Forlan after his recovery from a thigh injury and recall strike partner Luis Suarez and fullback Jorge Fucile following suspension. Central defender Diego Lugano returns to captain the side.
    • 18:40 Germany welcomed back attacking midfielder Thomas Mueller but left out four regular players. Germany start without flu-struck Miroslav Klose, Manuel Neuer in goal, forward Lukas Podolski and captain Philipp Lahm.
    • 18:25 The teams are in and there is no Miroslav Klose. The striker needs one more goal to equal Ronaldo's all-time World Cup haul of 15, but has flu and drops to the bench. Klose left out of Germany team
    • 18:10 Stay with us for updates on the match between Uruguay v Germany. We have live text commentary. Uruguay v Germany
    • 17:55 The Netherlands are training at Soccer City in Johannesburg. Check out the latest images. Dutch gear up for final
    • 17:40 Check out the latest tweets from our football reporter Tony Mabert, who has been doing a sterling job on football's front line for Eurosport in South Africa ahead of the final. https://twitter.com/EurosportWCup
    • 17:25 "If projected #NED XI for #worldcup final is correct (and De Jong, Van der Wiel return) then traditionalists will celebrate at numbering 1-11," says Henry Winter of the Daily Telegraph on his twitter page. Quite amusing thought in these days of vast squads.
    • 17:10 Check out the Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas on our video section. Casillas: Spain can relax
    • 16:55 More news on the tabloid hack who has been freed after his role in helping a member of the public access the England dressing room during the finals. British journalist freed after paying fine
    • 16:40 Spain's success in reaching the final is covering problems in the domestic game. Spain success masking Liga trouble
    • 16:25 Forget about Paul the Octopus...Shakira, the Colombian pop star who is performing at tomorrow's closing ceremony, is backing Spain to win the final. "I have been enjoying the football World Cup like any other fanatic. And since I am a Hispanic, I will be rooting for Spain. They have been a great team and the kind of football they played this time has been pleasing to eyes." A bit like herself. World Cup image
    • 16:10 Miroslav Klose can become the leading scorer in World Cup history this evening. Here's how he and his German companions have fared during these finals. Germany stats
    • 15:55 Check out out our power rankings to see how Eurosport have rated the performance of the teams in South Africa on the penultimate day of these finals. World Cup 2010 - Power Rankings
    • 15:40 Croatia defeated the Dutch to finish third in 1998. Check out what happened on this day in history that included the German air force attacking England as the Battle of Britain got underway in 1940. Dutch miss out
    • 15:25 Only four hours to the match for third place begins between Uruguay and Germany. It may not be the final, but Uruguay coach Oscar Tabarez is busy telling the world that his side "will fight to the death" in the match. Germany, for their part, are saying the World Cup is not over for them. Should be quite a night ahead. Match facts: Uruguay v Germany
    • 15:10 Giovanni van Bronckhorst set the ball rolling for the Dutch with arguably the goal of the tournament against Uruguay, and the Netherlands captain is hoping to end his playing days in style.
    • 15:00 Colombian singer Shakira has been parading around Soccer City Stadium, and there's plenty of action at the team bases. Here are some of the best images.
    • 14:55 Howard Webb will become the first Englsh referee to charge of a World Cup final since Jack Taylor in 1974 tomorrow evening, and even he is a little surprised with all the attention his appointment is receiving. More on that story.
    • 14:45 Ghana coach Milovan Rajevac is still seething over Luis Suarez's handball that denied the Black Stars a spot in the last four. Rajevac refutes claims that Suarez is a hero, preferring to label him as a 'trivial cheat'.
    • 14:40 The English reporter detained by South African police is now a free man. Simon Wright paid an admission of guilt fine for contravening sections of the Immigration Act as other charges were dropped.
    • 14:35 And just to even things out, we asked Spanish Eurosport's Jorge Ordas for his views on Spain's match with the Netherlands tomorrow. Here's his response.
    • 14:30 We spoke to one of our Dutch Eurosport colleagues ahead of tomorrow's final, and here are his predictions.
    • 14:25 WorldSoccerEd via twitter: 'Being asked by loads of people about player of tournament. For me, nothing between Villa & Sneijder...Final will decide.' Who's your choice for the Golden Ball?
    • 14:15 Referees Jorge Larrionda and Roberto Rosetti will be remembered for their glaring errors in South Africa, but a study by FIFA's referees' committee shows that officials have got 96 percent of decisions correct during the tournament so far. More on this story.
    • 14:10 This year's Spain team have reached new heights, and Spanish company Zero 2 Infinity had a rather interesting way of celebrating La Roja's win over Germany in the semi-finals. Shirt goes into space.
    • 14:00 Spain is renowned for its deep political divisions, and although La Roja's success has helped unify most of the country, not everyone in Spain will be cheering on Vicente del Bosque's men tomorrow night. More on that story.
    • 13:45 Come tomorrow evening, some dreams will be realised and some will be shattered. Winning the World Cup is the ultimate achievement, but it's not the only thing that will attract the headlines this summer. Here's a run down of some of the tournament's most memorable moments from A-Z.
    • 13:40 The World Cup isn't the only football tournament coming to a close this weekend. Just down the road from Sunday's final venue - Soccer City Stadium - the 'Football for Hope' competition is also reaching its climax. More on that story.
    • 13:30 Simon Wright is a lucky boy. The Sunday Mirror reporter saw his World Cup-related charges dropped earlier today after paying an admission of guilt fine before his trial. Wright was involved in the Pavlos Joseph incident, with the journalist accused of helping the fan allegedly gain access to the the England team's dressing room. Details.
    • 13:15 Iker Casillas said Spain's success this summer helped deflect attention from the country's economic crisis, but it can only paper over the cracks for so long. More on La Liga's debt woes.
    • 13:00 Although England are long gone this summer, Premier League referee Howard Webb is one Englishman who has impressed in South Africa. Webb officiated the Champions League final in May, and the 38-year-old will be the man in the middle for tomorrow's final, something he says is the 'ultimate honour'.
    • 12:50 Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, Kaka and Robinho were supposed to take the tournament by storm, but the superstars were upstaged by determined team performances.
    • 12:45 optapaolo via twitter: '25 - Xavi has created 25 goalscoring chances in this World Cup - eight more than any other player. Creative.'
    • 12:30 Paul the octopus picked Spain to win, and he's by no means the only one. Our friends at the International Sports Press Association conducted a poll with journalists from 54 countries, and nearly two-thirds of the hacks have tipped Spain to lift the trophy.
    • 12:15 David Villa is two goals shy of becoming Spain's all-time leading goalscorer, but the Barcelona-bound forward says he hopes 'the best is yet to come.'
    • 12:00 Arjen Robben's injured hamstring almost ruled the winger out of the tournament, but Bert van Marwijk was keen to take the Bayern Munich player to South Africa in the hope he would be fit for the latter stages. With the Dutch in the final, it's safe to say the gamble certainly paid off.
    • 11:45 World Cup chief executive Danny Jordaan says the tournament has helped forged unity within South Africa. He believes the social benefits will be well worth the 40 billion rand investment the government made. More.
    • 11:25 ARSENE WENGER TIPS SPAIN! The Eurosport expert thinks the two finalists are evenly and very technically gifted, but Wenger says Vicente del Bosque's squad have a small advantage.
    • 11:15 We've rummaged through this morning's newspapers, and there are pleas from Spain's Premier League duo of Fernando Torres and Cesc Fabregas for a chance to play in tomorrow's final. You can read much, much more in our World Paper Round.
    • 11:00 Spain have battled their way to the final for the first time in the country's history, and captain Iker Casiilas says his team-mates can start to relax. It's just a World Cup final after all... Video: Casillas: Spain can relax
    • 10:55 Henry Winter via twitter: '(Danny) Jordaan very strong on how exhausted stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney looked at World Cup. Says FIFA need to examine workload.'
    • 10:45 ambi_non posts: 'I think Villa will get it because of his scoring record and the fact he's made goals out of nothing. Sneijder has definitely done himself proud too, but really it's Schweinsteiger who deserves the award. His work rate, the ground he's covered, the attacks he's created, opposition attacks he's stopped dead...the impact he's had on Germany is incredible.' Who do you think deserves the Golden Ball award?
    • 10:40 Eurosport reader lordhelmut is backing Germany to win 3-0 this evening, with Thomas Mueller grabbing a hat-trick. Tomorrow, he's plucked for David Villa to score all three goals in a 3-1 victory for Spain.' What are your predictions? Post them below.
    • 10:30 STAT: '49 - Uruguay's shooting accuracy from outside the box at this World Cup has been higher (49%) than from inside (48%). Marksmen.' No problems with the Jabulani for Diego Forlan and co. then.
    • 10:25 The current Netherlands squad might not boast the talent of the Johan Cruyff era, but with Robin van Persie, Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder at his disposal, Bert van Marwijk has plenty of options to choose from. Spain, on the other hand, are in the midst of their 'golden generation', and tomorrow's final will be a test of technique for the purists.
    • 10:15 In case you missed the Michel Platini saga, here's a recap.
    • 10:10 Miroslav Klose's hopes of breaking Ronaldo's World Cup scoring record could be dashed by a back injury.
    • 10:00 David Villa and Wesley Sneijder will go head-to-head on Sunday. The duo lead the race for the Golden Boot with five goals apiece, but with the trophy at stake, they have more pressing concerns than chasing individual glory. Will that open the door for Miroslav Klose or Diego Forlan?
    • 09:55 Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore has praised referee Howard Webb. The 38-year-old from Rotherham has been tasked with officiating tomorrow's final, and Scudamore says it is just rewards for the hard-working Webb. More on that story.
    • 09:50 Carlos Marchena believes the time has come for Spain to lift football's biggest prize. Read what Marchena has to say.
    • 09:45 PLATINI RELEASED FROM HOSPITAL - The UEFA President was discharged from a Johannesburg hospital this morning, and he fully intends to be at Soccer City Stadium for tomorrow's final. Details.
    • 09:40 In the mood for an early challenge this morning? We've got just the thing for you. Put your knowledge to the test with our World Cup Venn.
    • 09:30 Arjen Robben is prepared to 'win ugly'. The Bayern Munich winger claims: 'We will defend from the front. No-one here feels they are too special to get their hands dirty.' Robben continues: 'I would much prefer to win a very ugly game than lose a beautiful one. We have heard enough of talk about how our football is very nice. But it gets you nowhere. We want to achieve something.'
    • 09:25 Adel's had his say about Spain's mis-firing striker Fernando Torres. 'Torres is a fantastic player at his prime, but does it really matter? He is playing just like an average player at the moment; he simply does not fit into a world class squad like Spain.' What do you think? Post your views below.
    • 09:15 It's time for more from the Armchair Pundit. Alex Chick thinks this evening's third-place play-off (billed as the game nobody wants to play - will be one not to miss, and gives us his take on who is most worthy of FIFA's Golden Ball award. More here.
    • 09:10 Cynical stuff from Early Boers, but unfortunately history backs him up. EB reckons tonight's third-place play-off could be a cracker. Devoid of any pressure, Germany and Uruguay are eager to finish their stay in South Africa in style, and who would bet against it? Clearly not our man in South Africa. 'Always the bridesmaid...'
    • 09:00 MICHEL PLATINI UPDATE - The UEFA President is recovering in hospital this morning after fainting at a Johannesburg restaurant last night. UEFA spokesman William Gaillard stated: 'I was told not to worry. He's fine. The fact is obviously with VIPs they're going to do all sorts of tests, so we don't know when he will be released.'
    • 08:50 Early Boers has wiped away the sleep from his eyes to bring up this update. He tweets: 'At Joburg airport for final part of trip. Less hectic than 1st arrival. A few fans, but mainly corporate groups. Such is football.'
    • 08:45 Rumours are that Fernando Torres sought out Vicente del Bosque, begging him to start him in tomorrow's final. A Spanish source reveals: 'Fernando went to see Del Bosque because he fears he will be left out. He told Del Bosque he is desperate to play and that he won't let him down. Of course Fernando accepts it has to be Del Bosque's decision but he wants to make it as difficult as possible for the coach to leave him out.' Should the Liverpool striker start? We want to hear from you.
    • 08:40 StatManJon via twitter: 'There have been 69 goals at 19 World Cup finals, an average of 3.8. But the last five finals have produced just 8, and average of 1.6' What should we expect tomorrow? Post your comments below.
    • 08:30 It's time for a quick breather from all this final build up. The Armchair Pundit has done what he does best - offering his insight from the comfort of his living room. England were outclassed by Germany, and Alex Chick is already looking ahead to Brazil in 2014 - if the Three Lions qualify of course. England's 2014 World Cup squad.
    • 08:25 Fabio Grosso clinched victory for Italy four years ago, but there has been a dearth of goals over the course of the last five finals. World Cup finals results.
    • 08:15 Before South Africa, Spain's best showing at a World Cup was a handful of quarter-final appearances. David Villa's goal against Paraguay changed all that. Spain defeated Germany to reach the final for the first time in the country's history, and will try to become one of just three teams to hold the World Cup and European Championship titles at the same time. West Germany (1972-74) and France (1998-2000) are the others. Spain's record in previous tournaments.
    • 08:10 The Netherlands want to erase the painful memories of two consecutive second-place finishes during the 1970s with a win tomorrow evening. Dutch WC history.
    • 08:00 StatManJon via twitter: 'Hope: More goals, on average, have been scored at World Cup final venue Soccer City than any other. Average goals at SC: 2.86 (20 in 7).' Yes, the Johannesburg venue is the place for goals. More of the same would be nice.
    • 07:55 Spain's stuttering start could have easily derailed the EURO 2008 champions this summer, but an opening match defeat to Switzerland galvanised Vicente del Bosque's men. La Roja have gone from strength to strength and have the chance to become just the second side since West Germany to win the World Cup two years after triumphing at the European Championships. Path to the final.
    • 07:45 It's not always been pretty, but the Netherlands have found a way to win all their matches in South Africa. Here's how the Dutch booked their place in the final.
    • 07:30 Kick-off at Johannesburg's Soccer City Stadium is now only 36 hours away. The Netherlands won the last time these two sides met - but that was back in 2002. Victory for Spain would ensure they become the first side to win the World Cup after losing their opening match, but a win for Dutch would make Bert van Marwijk's men only the second team to lift the trophy after winning all of their qualifying and finals matches (Brazil were the first). Factbox.
    • 07:25 The Netherlands are undefeated in their past 25 matches, with their last defeat coming against Australia in September 2008. The Dutch the unthinkable by beating Brazil after going a goal behind, and here's a look at the their results since February 2008.
    • 07:15 La Furia Roja have been on a remarkable run of late; they have lost just two matches under the guidance of Vicente del Bosque and just three times since November 2006. Here's a look at Spain's results over the past three-and-a-half years.
    • 07:10 Iker Casillas says Spain's success this summer is helping people back home take their minds off the country's economic woes.
    • 07:00 Good morning and welcome to the build up for tomorrow's final between Spain and the Netherlands. This is place for all the latest news and views ahead of the match.
    • 23:00 Well, that's all we have time for this evening folks. Be sure to join us bright and early tomorrow morning (07:00 to be precise). Thanks for following along - I hope you've enjoyed it. Good night!
    • 22:45 Eurosport reader Richard comments: 'If (Paul) the Octopus is so sure of the result why doesn't he put a few squid on it...a few squid...boom boom!!' Ha ha.
    • 22:30 Alex Chick - aka the Armchair Pundit - via twitter: 'Platini faints in fancy Sandton restaurant: probably saw price of Lobster Thermidor. Did he call it "financial doping?"'
    • 22:20 Brazil were stunned by the Netherlands in the quarter-finals, but former Brazilian coach Dunga says he has a clear conscience despite La Seleçao's disappointing exit. 'I wanted to win, but this didn't happen. What else can I say? The players gave everything. I have nothing to reproach them for. We did what we could have done.'
    • 22:10 Thomas Mueller was an integral part of Germany's squad that hammered both England and Argentina, but the 20-year-old starlet missed out against Spain because of suspension. Mueller has been nominated as one three players in the running for young player of the tournament, but the German says he would much rather be playing for a chance at World Cup glory. Video: Profile: Thomas Mueller
    • 22:00 ARSENE WENGER TIPS SPAIN! Watch as the Eurosport expert gives his verdict on what promises to be a cracking final at the Soccer City Stadium in Johannesburg. Video: Wenger: Small advantage Spain
    • 21:55 Apparently, low blood sugar was the reason for Michel Platini fainting. More on that here.
    • 21:50 Early Boers has been awfully silent, but the Michel Platini incident has shocked him into life. EB tweets: 'Good news Platini not as bad as first feared. Cops flak being lumped in with Blatter. Financial fair play, his baby, a must. A legendary player.' No arguing the last part of that statement, that's for sure.
    • 21:45 Iker Casillas says his side's unprecedented success this summer is helping people back home forget about Spain's economic woes.
    • 21:30 And here's the latest on Michel Platini.
    • 21:15 Adelakun writes: 'Spain will be the world champion and will beat Netherlands 2-0. A goal from Villa and another from Pedro. Xavi shall be unveiled as the best player while Villa gets with the golden boot award.' Disagree? Post your predictions below.
    • 21:10 UEFA sources reveal Michel Platini is 'fine' after fainting at a Johannesburg restaurant. 'Michel has had flu for a couple of days and he fainted in a restaurant and was taken to hospital. He is having some tests but is conscious and well.' That's a relief.
    • 21:00 DTguardian via twitter: 'More encouraging news about Michel Platini collapse...Taken to hospital but NOT a heart attack, according to friend at L'Equipe.' Let's hope it's not too serious.
    • 20:45 BREAKING NEWS - Filtering through via twitter is the news that UEFA President Michel Platini has suffered a suspected heart attack and has been taken to a Johannesburg hospital. More on that as we get it.
    • 20:30 Eurosport expert Arsene Wenger is full of praise for the organisers of this summer's World Cup. Wenger bemoans the poor performances from some of the so-called top nations, but says the gap between countries is ever-decreasing. Watch it here.
    • 20:20 Uruguay are serious about going home on a high. Here's some images of the South Americans being put through paces at a training session in Port Elizabeth.
    • 20:10 The race for the Golden Boot is still very much up in the air, and no fewer than six players still have a realistic shot at finishing as the tournament's top scorer. Details.
    • 20:00 A win tomorrow for Uruguay would give the South Americans their best finish at the finals since 1950, and La Celeste are eager not to let the opportunity pass them by.
    • 19:50 FIFA general secretary Jerome Valcke claims the governing body could introduce goal-line technology within the next year. 'For the additional assistant referees the final decision will be at the IFAB in 2012, for the goal-line technology any time. At the March meeting the decision could be made.' Are changes just round the corner then?
    • 19:40 Spain striker David Villa tops the list of players nominated for FIFA's Golden Ball award. Find out who else is in the running right here.
    • 19:25 England will be represented by referee Howard Webb in Sunday's final - along with his two assistants. Webb's wife is amazed that he can keep order on the pitch given that he struggles to control his own children.
    • 19:10 Eurosport reader sean writes: 'Holland will not give the Spanish team the kind of room that Germany did. It will be interesting to see how Xavi, Iniesta and Alonso will cope with De Jong, Van Bommel and Von Bronkhorst snapping at their heels. This match is going to be very close. One moment of magic could do it. And as we have seen, the Dutch are just as capable as the Spanish of producing that magic. And they have the self-belief to do it too.' Have your say too...
    • 18:55 There are still two games to be played in South Africa, which means there are plenty of opportunities for money to be won. BET now on the World Cup
    • 18:40 Durban's Moses Mabhida Stadium hosted Wednesday's semi-final between Spain and Germany, and officials are hoping the venue could help lure the 2020 Olympic Games to South Africa. More on that story.
    • 18:30 Bert van Marwijk echoes those sentiments. The Netherlands coach claims 'Barcelona still has a big Dutch stamp with coaches like Cruyff and Michels,' adding that it is a 'big compliment for Dutch football'.
    • 18:25 Spain's playing style is reminiscent of the great Dutch sides in the 1970s, and La Roja midfielder Sergio Busquets says Spain owe a large debt of gratitude to the Netherlands because of the strong Dutch influence at Barcelona down the years.
    • 18:15 Germany are playing a day earlier than they had hoped, but Thomas Mueller is keen for the Germans to turn on the style in the third-place play-off against Uruguay, so Jogi Loew's men can go home on a high note. Video: Mueller eyes 'great exit'
    • 18:10 Paul the octopus has been one of the stars of the World Cup, but Eurosport reader chin hopes the eight-legged creature's psychic powers come to an end on Sunday. 'We must believe the Orange power...Holland all the way... I believe Holland can beat Spain. Please continue to support holland and forget about the octupus.'
    • 18:00 How about this for a stat. If Spain beat the Netherlands tomorrow, it will leave New Zealand as the only undefeated side at this summer's World Cup. I doubt anyone predicted that, and if you did, I'm tempted to say I don't believe you. That would certainly be one proud achievement for Ricki Herbert's All Whites. (OptaJose)
    • 17:55 Things are looking ominous for Uruguay ahead of tomorrow's third-place play-off. optapaolo tweets: '14 - Uruguay are winless in their last 14 World Cup matches vs European sides, a run started with a 1-0 defeat to Germany in 1970. History.'
    • 17:45 The head of the Spanish FA - Angel Maria Villar - says 'humility' and a bit of 'luck' are the reasons behind La Roja's success this summer. More from Villar.
    • 17:40 We're just under 50 hours away from kick-off at the Soccer City Stadium, but before the final, there is of course the matter of a third-place play-off between Germany and Uruguay to negotiate. Luis Suarez is back after suspension, and the Uruguay striker is keen to finish the tournament in style. 'For this squad, the World Cup is not over yet. Now what's left is to play to the death for third place.'
    • 17:30 A nice stat for you...Oliver Kay tweets: 'Nike trumpet that their players have scored most World Cup goals (60) with cough Jabulani. Leading competitor is on 58.' Might that be Adidas? I presume it is.
    • 17:25 The Netherlands' golden generation were twice runners-up during the 1970s, but the Dutch are hoping this year's crop of players can go one step further than Johan Cruyff and co. Standing in their way is the best squad in Spanish history, and both sides are eager to take home the trophy that has so far eluded them. Details.
    • 17:15 NEWSFLASH! David Beckham tips Spain to triumph over the Netherlands. 'Goldenballs' claims the winner of the midfield battle will take home the trophy, and you can read more here.
    • 17:10 Can't wait for Sunday's final? Follow along with the latest events from South Africa through the eyes of a camera. World Cup photos.
    • 17:00 Spain's success this summer has helped unite a country notorious for it's regional divisions. The sight of the Spanish flag isn't always well receievd in the so-called autonomous regions such as Catalunya and the Basque country, but La Furia Roja's run to the final is bringing the country together like never before. Read more on this story.
    • 16:55 Eurosport's Jim White doesn't always see eye-to-eye with the readers, but raykov_t couldn't agree more with our blogger this time. 'Good point, Jim! A team that can have players like Torres and Fabregas left on the bench (for one reason or another) and still outclass Germany truly deserves to win the tournament. A side full of talent and a coach who is used to deal with such sides.' Agree? Let us know what you think.
    • 16:45 We're taking a quick breather from all the build up to Sunday's match to direct you towards the latest Early Boers video blog. EB caught with the man who cycled from Olso to South Africa, increasing awareness about the plight of refugees along the way. Watch it here.
    • 16:35 Eurosport reader eidbest believes Paul the 'oracle octopus' betrayed his country of birth this summer. 'Why didn't the octopus stand next to England's flag, we could have won.' I have my doubts.
    • 16:30 The mindset of the Dutch and Spain squads was fairly similar in the semi-finals. Both sides played with two attacking full-backs and two holding midfielders, with a lone striker up front. Take a look at the tactical breakdown ahead of Sunday's final.
    • 16:25 Bolo Zenden was part of the Netherlands squad that lost to Brazil on penalties in the semi-finals at France '98, but the Sunderland midfielder hopes his compatriots can erase those painful memories on Sunday. Zenden says: 'Back in Holland, if we go to a tournament, the goal is to get to the final and win it, and if you don't have that intention, you might as well not go. They've got so far, they're so close now and I hope that they can nick it.'
    • 16:15 FACT: Players with the squad number 9 have scored more goals at the 2010 World Cup than any other, but the number nine shirt hasn't been kind to Fernando Torres. Robin van Persie hasn't had much luck either...will that change on Sunday? (OptaJoe)
    • 16:10 Either way, there will be a first-time triumph for one side. Many labelled Spain as the favourites to win it all before the tournament even started, and how they have every chance of doing so. Here's a look at Vicente del Bosque's so called 'golden generation'.
    • 16:00 Sunday will bring euphoria to one side, but who will it be? Can the Netherlands win their first World Cup title at the third time of asking? Here's a look at the players that Bert van Marwijk has at his disposal.
    • 15:55 Miroslav Klose's 14 World cup goals put him second all-time along with compatriot Gerd Muller, but the Germany striker insists breaking Ronaldo's scoring record is not on his mind. Klose says: 'I don't know whether I am going to pass Ronaldo's record, and I don't really care. I am more interested in what we do as a team.' He's also still in the running for this summer's Golden Boot with just a goal less than David Villa and Wesley Sneijder to his name.
    • 15:45 The Dutch have a tradition of celebrating success with canal parades, but owners of houseboats are less than thrilled about the prospect. The Netherlands' 1988 European Championship victory resulted in several boats sinking, so authorities have planned a route that passes as few of them as possible this time. More on that story here.
    • 15:40 Spain needed a bit of good fortune to beat Paraguay in the last eight. Defeat was hard to take for coach Gerardo Martino, but the Argentine has announced he will remain in charge of La Albirroja until after next year's Copa America.
    • 15:30 Spain do love to knock it about, but I can tell you that Colombia’s 1994 team completed more passes per game than Vicente del Bosque’s supremely talented side. The South Americans averaged 653 passes per match, surpassing Spain’s 617. (Thanks, optajean)
    • 15:25 Germany's Thomas Mueller could crown an "unbelievable" first season in top flight football with the World Cup's young player of the tournament award after he was picked as one of three candidates, but are there any representatives from the Netherlands or Spain? Find out here!
    • 15:15 Remember, you can stay fully abreast with all the latest news from South Africa with our
    • 15:00 Hupa cannot believe that Messi is in the running for the Golden Ball award, and thinks even Hernandez of Mexico has done more than the Argentine. What do others think? Post your views below!
    • 14:55 And so the attention turns to the Golden Boot, and Meganimbus thinks Villa will get it with seven strikes, while Sepehr thinks Sneijder will get the Golden Ball, along with Saif. Adelakun thinks Xavi will be given the accolade of best player, with Villa the top goalscorer.
    • 14:40 Sergio Busquets believes Spain are more than capable of dealing with the threat of Wesley Sneijder when they take on Holland in Sunday's World Cup final in Johannesburg. "We have to stop him together as a team, by not giving him space or any time to think, just like we did with Mesut Ozil," he said. "But as I said, we've already stopped other major players in the tournament and hopefully with Sneijder it will be the same result."
    • 14:30 World Cup finalists Spain and the Netherlands have produced some of the greatest moments, classiest club sides and top players in soccer's history but somehow the biggest prize in the sport has always eluded them. One country, though, will celebrate their first World Cup triumph at Soccer City in Johannesburg on Sunday bringing an end to generations of frustration. This is the history of both sides in the World Cup!
    • 14:15 Netherlands coach Bert van Marwijk has clearly learned lessons from the country's past failures at major tournaments after steering his team to the World Cup final against Spain at Soccer City on Sunday. "I have tried... to drill a stronger self-belief into the players but it is a process," the coach said." It is clearly working! Find out more about van Marwijk's methods here
    • 14:00 Spain owe a large debt of gratitude to their World Cup final opponents Netherlands because of the strong Dutch influence at Barcelona down the years, according to midfielder Sergio Busquets. Seven Barca players started the semi-final against Germany, including Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Busquets, all of whom have inherited something of the legacy handed down from Dutch coaches Johan Cruyff through Louis van Gaal to Frank Rijkaard. Click here to read more on the Dutch influence
    • 13:45 Spain shook off the tag of perennial also-rans to storm to victory at Euro 2008 and they have gone from strength to strength since then to put themselves on the verge of a first World Cup triumph. Read more on the previously 'dark horses' here
    • 13:30 Holland winger Arjen Robben says he would be delighted to win ugly in the World Cup final on Sunday. "If you are organised, you know one goal could be enough, which has been the case so far. The point is, we are in a World Cup final. From now on how you actually play no longer matters," Robben said.
    • 13:15 Dudley thinks Diego Forlan should walk away with the golden ball due to his influence on the Uruguay side, because Sneijder or Schweinsteiger could be replaced by other members of the Netherlands and Germany squads, respectively. What do others think? Post your views below!
    • 13:05 Spain's World Cup stars are set to net £414,000 each should they win Sunday's final - nearly double what the Netherlands' players will receive. The Sun newspaper reports that Spanish players are set for the bumper payout if they manage to beat the Oranje at Soccer City in Johannesburg as the tournament reaches its climax. Read more on this story here
    • 12:50 According to the esteemed Eurosport blogger Jim White, there is only one team in the running for the World Cup on Sunday, and that is Spain! Click here to find out why...
    • 12:35 These are the current odds from Eurosportbet: Spain are the favourites at 21/20, while a draw is 11/5. The Netherlands are great value at 5/2, while Sneijder is 3/1 to clinch the golden boot ahead of David Villa, who is at evens! What are you going for? BET on the final here!
    • 12:20 FACT (from Optajean): The Soccer City Stadium in Johannesburg is the most prolific venue of the World Cup, with 2.86 goals per game - all the proof you need that the final should be a cracker!
    • 12:05 The Golden Ball nominees are in! David Villa, Xavi, Andres Iniesta (Spain); Wesley Sneijder, Arjen Robben (Holland); Bastian Schweinsteiger, Mesut Ozil (Germany); Diego Forlan (Uruguay); Asamoah Gyan (Ghana); Messi (Argentina). What do you make of the list, and who would you give the award to? Post your views below!
    • 11:50 FACT: Only one of the Netherlands' six World Cup matches have been played at altitude, while Spain have played three. Soccer City is 1753m above sea level! (OptaJoe).
    • 11:40 Here we go, the story has been filed in full: Paul the Octopus took just three minutes to decide upon Spain as being the winners of the World Cup final! "That was fast - it looks like a clear-cut victory for Spain," said Tanja Munzig, spokeswoman for Sea Life in Oberhausen. Read the story in full here
    • 11:25 STAT ALERT! The Netherlands goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg has conceded the most goals from outside the box at the 2010 World Cup - he's shaky! (Cheers, Optajean.)
    • 11:15 As you are no doubt aware, we have a very tense poll going on right now, with just 10 per cent separating the Netherlands and Spain from the 8740 voters (thus far) who have declared their prediction for who will win the World Cup. Do a Paul, and nail your colours to a mast!
    • 11:00 BREAKING NEWS - IT'S SPAIN! Octopus Paul goes straight in for the mussel inside the Spain box, and he is utterly unwavering in lifting off the lid and declaring the winner of the World Cup final! So, there you go: Spain are going to win the World Cup!
    • 10:55 Right, brace yourselves folks - Paul the Octopus is about to unveil the winner of the World Cup final! Paul has already tipped Germany for third place, and the oceanic oracle is never wrong!
    • 10:50 Already sick of Howard Webb? Yep. Well, it would be remiss to not tell you that Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore has jumped into the spotlight to accept the credit for the Northern referee being awarded the final! Read what the Scud has had to say here
    • 10:35 Despite their great traditions, generations of top players and leading clubs, neither the Dutch nor the Spanish have ever had their hands on the game's top prize. European champions Spain have never previously gone beyond the quarter-final stage while the Dutch emerged from their glory years in the 1970s having lost in two successive World Cup finals in 1974 and 1978. Read a background feature to the final here
    • 10:20 IT'S IN - DAVID BECKHAM'S WORLD CUP DREAM TEAM! There are five players in Becks's side who will be representing either the Netherlands or Spain on Sunday - find out who they are here!
    • 10:05 Spain and the Netherlands are justifiably top of the World Power Rankings at present, but to find out which side holds the number one spot and to see the full list, click here
    • 10:00 Already the predictions are flying in from all angles: Eynbalala thinks Spain will win 4-1 and even specifies the times of the goals, while Matthutchins74 believes Spain will prevail 3-2. Aziz Marzoq is adamant that the Dutch will lift the trophy after a 2-1 victory, while Arash simply suggests that Paul the Octopus will tell us all we need to know. Indeed!
    • 09:45 Don't forget, you can follow all the latest World Cup news as it happens with
    • 09:30 The papers are awash with Howard Webb fever as the Englishman prepares to take charge of the final, and Rotherham's finest will be a very proud man as he leads out Spain and the Netherlands at Soccer City on Sunday. World Cup Papers: World Wide Webb
    • 09:15 'Robin will fire in the final!' Bert van Marwijk believes the man who will prove the difference against Spain will be Arsenal forward Robin van Persie! The 26-year-old has netted just one goal in six games for the Netherlands, but his coach is convinced he will come good in Soccer City. "He will show his best football in the coming match," he said. "He is a quality player and continues to improve."
    • 09:00 Spain manager Vicente del Bosque has said he does not know whether Fernando Torres will be in his starting line-up for the final, with the Liverpool striker set to be left hanging until Sunday. "I don't know if he will be in the line-up," Del Bosque is quoted as saying. "But he is one of the key members of the squad and a lovely guy." Surely that is enough? Alonso: I'm a lucky man!
    • 08:50 According to Spain midfielder Xabi Alonso, he is simply "lucky" to be playing alongside Xavi and Andres Iniesta, and the Real Madrid maestro insists he is not remotely worried about his role within the side. "I never worried that I would not find a way into the side," Alonso said. Poor Cesc!
    • 08:35 Holland boss Bert van Marwijk admits Spain play a more attractive brand of football than his team - but insists the Dutch do not fear them. "There are no secrets for us with Spain. We are not afraid," he said. "We respect Spain but we are not afraid. It's a big challenge to play against Spain and to beat them." So, it's fair to say that van Marwijk is not afraid then! Read more from Bert by clicking here
    • 08:25 Who is going to win the final? Well we shall find out around noon today when Octopus Paul makes his selection. Will it be Spain? Will it be the Netherlands? You will find out here right away! Blog: Paul's eight hands of destiny
    • 08:15 It was a World Cup of battered reputations as numerous global icons failed to live up to their billing, and now you can find out who is to be shamed, including one of the stars set to be involved in the final, in our World Cup Flops XI!
    • 08:05 The great 'best player in the world' debate has been re-ignited after this year's tournament, with Lionel Messi's crown under serious threat from one of his Barcelona team-mates... Which one?
    • 08:00 But first, a quick word on Italian ref Roberto Rosetti, who has quit the game. He says his terrible gaffe in the in Argentina's 3-1 win over Mexico in the last 16 had nothing to do with his decision. We say: long hairy beard. More here
    • 08:00 Today marks the start of our build-up to the final itself... that makes three whole days of pre-match patter to enjoy!
    • 08:00 Welcome back once again to our rolling live news ticker... we'll be here with you throughout the day to bring you all the latest from South Africa, as the tournament draws towards a conclusion.

  • Summary

    • 116' GOAL! GOAL! INIESTA PUTS SPAIN INTO THE LEAD AND ON THE VERGE OF WORLD CUP GLORY! Iniesta is played in by Fabregas and the Barcelona man finishes brilliantly!
    • 109' HEITINGA IS SENT OFF! He pulls back Iniesta as the Spain man looked to get onto Xavi's through pass... Netherlands down to 10 for the final 10 minutes!
    • 100' Ooh! Another chance for Spain! Navas fires an early shot off which deflects off Van Bronckhorst and into the side netting!
    • 96' Oooh! Mathijsen heads over the bar from a corner at the other end! It's really opening up now!
    • 95' FABREGAS! Chance to break the deadlock as he's played in on goal by Iniesta! But Stekelenburg makes a cracking save!
    • 92' Fabregas is bowled over in the box... then Xavi goes over as he is about to shoot! Penalty shout! But Webb says no deal!
    • 83' Robben again hares off towards goal after Van Persie's flick on! He holds off Puyol but Casillas makes the save at his feet! Robben feels he should have a penalty but Webb doesn't agree!
    • 80'' Lovely stuff by Iniesta... great turn and he's off into the box! But Sneijder does well to track back and make a crucial challenge! Image: Spanish fans watch the final
    • 77' RAMOS! Oh dear, what a miss! It's a free header from the corner... he has to score! But he sends it over the bar! One gilt-edged chance each now...
    • 69' VILLA! MUST BE! NO! How does that not end up in the back of the net?! Navas skins Van Bronckhorst before firing across the face of goal... Heitinga makes a mess of it and it falls to Villa at the back stick! But Heitinga recovers to make a crucial block and the ball loops up over the bar!
    • 62' ROBBEN'S THROUGH ON GOAL! MUST BE! Sneijder plays him clean through on goal! No! Casillas sticks out a leg and the Dutch are denied! That has to go down as a bad miss...
    • 48' Puyol rises to meet the corner, semi-final-style! But he doesn't get great contact on the ball... still it falls to Capdevila at the back stick! But he fluffs his lines and mis-kicks completely!
    • 45'+1 ROBBEN! Ooh! He comes inside Capdevila and fires on target! Casillas is forced into saving low to his left!
    • 37' Sneijder takes it.... it goes to the edge of the box to Van Bommel who fires into the mixer.... it comes to Mathijsen! But the defender swings and misses! Pretty embarassing for him....
    • 34' Ooh! What's Casillas doing? As the ball is played back to him - sportingly by the Dutch - he misjudges it and the ball bounces up over him! He gets a slight touch on it and the ball goes wide of his post for a corner! Bizarre!
    • 12' VILLA! Oooh! The diminutive striker lashes a back post volley into the side netting! Spain well on top so far....
    • 11' Great stuff from Spain... Ramos tricks his way past Kuyt before letting fly! But his effort from a tight angle is going wide... Heitings puts behind for a corner anyway! Image: Ramos rues the missed chance
    • 5' Oooh! Xavi delivers a great free-kick into the box where Ramos plants a diving header on target! Stekelenburg seems to see it late but he recovers to make a tremendous save! So near to the opener!
    • 18:15 Spain: 1-Iker Casillas; 15-Sergio Ramos, 3-Gerard Pique, 5-Carles Puyol, 11-Joan Capdevila; 14-Xabi Alonso, 8-Xavi, 6-Andres Iniesta, 16-Sergio Busquets; 18-Pedro, 7-David Villa.
    • 18:15 The teams are in... Netherlands: 1-Maarten Stekelenburg; 2-Gregory van der Wiel, 3-John Heitinga, 4-Joris Mathijsen, 5-Giovanni van Bronckhorst; 7-Dirk Kuyt, 6-Mark van Bommel, 10-Wesley Sneijder, 8-Nigel de Jong, 11-Arjen Robben; 9-Robin van Persie.
    • 15:25 Former Football League chairman Lord Mawhinney has urged Fabio Capello to retire several of England's ageing players following the disappointing World Cup campaign. "I think Fabio should be encouraged to recognise that a number of the present team are going to be past their peak by the European Championships in 2012," Mawhinney told BBC Radio Five Live's Sportsweek programme.
    • 13:15 World Cup star Mesut Ozil has pledged his future to Werder Bremen despite being linked to a big money move to a top European club. "Bremen want me to fulfil the contract and so do I," the German told Bild. "I have always said that I want to fulfil my contract, that is important to me."
    • 12:50 In case you missed our lead story on Nelson Mandela, here it is again for you. Mandela 'pressured' to attend final
    • 12:05 FIFA president Sepp Blatter jumped to the defence of the 2010 World Cup after criticism about empty seats and poor refereeing standards. Full story
    • 10:25 The grandson of Nelson Mandela has claimed FIFA have put "extreme pressure" on the former South African president to attend tonight's World Cup final. Full story
    • 08:15 A new champion will be crowned tonight and Bert van Marwijk, Xavi and Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger look ahead to the final in his video.
    • 07:15 Spain may be European champions but keeper Iker Casillas admits La Furia Roja have been suffering from nerves in South Africa: "We've felt a bit anxious all the way through the tournament, even the early matches," said the Real Madrid stopper. "This is a very important match - the most important of our careers - and we do feel nervous."
    • 07:00 Good morning - happy World Cup final day! This is what we have been building up to over the past five weeks or, in fact, since Italy lifted the trophy four years ago. No azzurri tonight though, it's Holland v Spain and we will be bringing you all the build-up throughout the day.
    • 21:30 And here's the latest on Michel Platini.
    • 19:40 Spain striker David Villa tops the list of players nominated for FIFA's Golden Ball award. Find out who else is in the running right here.
    • 12:05 The Golden Ball nominees are in! David Villa, Xavi, Andres Iniesta (Spain); Wesley Sneijder, Arjen Robben (Holland); Bastian Schweinsteiger, Mesut Ozil (Germany); Diego Forlan (Uruguay); Asamoah Gyan (Ghana); Messi (Argentina). What do you make of the list, and who would you give the award to? Post your views below!
    • 11:00 BREAKING NEWS - IT'S SPAIN! Octopus Paul goes straight in for the mussel inside the Spain box, and he is utterly unwavering in lifting off the lid and declaring the winner of the World Cup final! So, there you go: Spain are going to win the World Cup!

Team Line-up & Ratings

  • Line-up

    Live Team Line-Up

    • Starting line-up

      • M. Stekelenburg
      • G. van der Wiel Yellow Card
      • J. Heitinga Red Card
      • J. Mathijsen Yellow Card
      • G. van Bronckhorst Yellow Card Substitution Out (105′)
      • M. van Bommel Yellow Card
      • N. de Jong Yellow Card Substitution Out (99′)
      • A. Robben Yellow Card
      • W. Sneijder
      • D. Kuyt Substitution Out (71′)
      • R. van Persie Yellow Card

      Subs

      • A. Ooijer
      • R. van der Vaart Substitution In99′
      • I. Afellay
      • K. Huntelaar
      • R. Babel
      • M. Vorm
      • E. Braafheid Substitution In105′
      • D. de Zeeuw
      • S. Boschker
      • K. Boulahrouz
      • S. Schaars
      • E. Elia Substitution In71′

    • Starting line-up

      • I. Casillas
      • S. Ramos Yellow Card
      • G. Piqué
      • C. Puyol Yellow Card
      • J. Capdevila Yellow Card
      • S. Busquets
      • X. Alonso Substitution Out (87′)
      • Pedro Substitution Out (60′)
      • Xavi Yellow Card
      • A. Iniesta Goal Yellow Card
      • D. Villa Substitution Out (106′)

      Subs

      • C. Marchena
      • J. Reina
      • F. Torres Substitution In106′
      • C. Fábregas Substitution In87′
      • J. Navas Substitution In60′
      • R. Albiol
      • F. Llorente
      • Víctor Valdés
      • &. Arbeloa
      • D. Silva
      • J. Martínez
      • J. Mata

  • Rate Players

    Rate Players

    Please to rate the players.

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    • Player Y! Users Expert My Rating
      Goalkeeper
      4.9 -
      Defenders
      Yellow Card 5.7 -
      Red Card 5.6 -
      Yellow Card 6.2 -
      Yellow Card Substitution Out105′ 7 -
      Midfielders
      Yellow Card 6 -
      Yellow Card Substitution Out99′ 6 -
      Yellow Card 6.6 -
      6.8 -
      Substitution Out71′ 6.4 -
      Strikers
      Yellow Card 5.2 -
      Subs
      Substitution In99′ 4.2 -
      Substitution In105′ 4 -
      Substitution In71′ 4.4 -
    • Player Y! Users Expert My Rating
      Goalkeeper
      7.9 -
      Defenders
      Yellow Card 7 -
      7.8 -
      Yellow Card 7.2 -
      Yellow Card 7.6 -
      Midfielders
      6.6 -
      Substitution Out87′ 7.4 -
      Substitution Out60′ 7 -
      Yellow Card 8.2 -
      Goal Yellow Card 9.1 -
      Strikers
      Substitution Out106′ 7.8 -
      Subs
      Substitution In106′ 6.5 -
      Substitution In87′ 8.1 -
      Substitution In60′ 7.2 -

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