4) Spain - The End

That is how Madrid-based newspaper Marca summed up Spain's exit at the group stage. Losses in their first two matches against the Netherlands and Chile signalled an end to six years of dominance that included two European titles and a World Cup. While some had predicted tougher times for Vicente del Bosque's team, none forecast such an abrupt demise. They salvaged some pride with a 3-0 victory over Australia in the last group match in Curitiba. It signalled not only the finale of a disastrous World Cup campaign but the end of an era. David Villa has already announced his international retirement while doubts hang over the futures of Xavi Hernandez, Fernando Torres and Xabi Alonso with La Roja.

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