Spain had NEVER won the World Cup. They had the best players, the most beautiful football, tiki-taka perfection — but they had never won it. Until Andres Iniesta received Cesc Fabregas's pass in the 116th minute of the 2010 Final, controlled it with one touch, and smashed it past Maarten Stekelenburg with his right foot. GOAL! Spain were WORLD CHAMPIONS! Iniesta ripped off his shirt to reveal a message: 'Dani Jarque siempre con nosotros' — for his late friend!
Country: Spain Opponent: Netherlands Year: 2010 Round: Final Score: Spain 1-0 Netherlands (AET) Minute: 116'
The Moment
- Iniesta struck Fabregas's pass first-time with his right foot past Dutch goalkeeper Stekelenburg
- The goal came in the 116th minute of extra time in the most fouled-riddled Final in history
- He revealed an undershirt tribute to Dani Jarque, his friend who had died the previous year
- Spain became the first European team to win a World Cup held outside Europe since 1958
- It completed an unprecedented treble: Euro 2008, World Cup 2010, and Euro 2012
The Verdict
Iniesta's goal was the glorious culmination of Spain's incredible golden generation. Years of developing tiki-taka, years of playing the most beautiful football on earth, all came down to one right-foot strike in extra time of the biggest match possible. And the heartfelt tribute to his late friend Dani Jarque? That made it even more special. Football, friendship, and tears of pure joy!
Tomorrow: #12 — Stay tuned for the next legendary goal!
