Netherlands vs. Spain (11.07.2010)

In a nail-biting match that stretched into extra time, Spain and the Netherlands faced off on July 11, 2010, in a game that will be remembered for its intensity and a dramatic finish. The first substitution came in the 60th minute as Spain introduced Pedro to inject fresh legs into their attacking line-up. The Netherlands responded with their own tactical change, bringing on D. Kuijt in the 71st minute to bolster their forward options.

As the regular 90 minutes ended without a score, both teams bolstered their midfields: Xabi Alonso was subbed onto the field for Spain at the 87th-minute mark, while N. de Jong reinforced the Dutch side with his entry at the 99th minute. The tension was palpable as each team sought the elusive goal that would crown them champions.

G. van Bronckhorst made his way onto the pitch for the Netherlands in the 105th minute, marking their third and final substitution in an effort to find a winning formula. Spain followed suit one minute later, at 106 minutes, by bringing on star striker David Villa to up the ante in their attacking game.

Finally, as the minutes ticked closer to the penalty shootout, Andrés Iniesta became Spain's hero, finding the back of the net in the 116th minute. His "normal goal," as it is noted in the records, was far from ordinary—it was the strike that secured Spain's triumph over the Netherlands, making history as Iniesta and his teammates lifted the coveted trophy amidst euphoric celebrations.

Lineup Netherlands

Lineup Spain

Substitutes Netherlands

Substitutes Spain

Netherlands

Dutch national football team is one of Europe's leading national teams, having already won medals at the World Cup or the Euros on more than one occasion. The World Championship has brought them silver three times and bronze once. At the European Championships they have won one gold and four third places.

Spain

Spanish national football team is one of the best national teams in history. They became World Champions in 2010 in South Africa, and have won the European Championship three times so far in 1964, 2008 and 2012, in addition to being runners-up in 1984. They won Olympic gold in 1992 and have silverware from 1920 and 2000.

Do you want information about more matches?