How this Spain squad is throwing back to 2010 in its quest to win the World Cup
Spain’s World Cup Journey Mirrors Historic 2010 Triumph
How this Spain squad is throwing – I need to share something personal. As I prepared to watch the World Cup semifinal clash between Spain and France, anxiety filled my chest. The French team appeared virtually unbeatable, whereas our Spanish side had been securing victories without truly captivating audiences. Kylian Mbappé stood atop the Golden Boot standings with eight goals to his name, while our own prodigy – Lamine Yamal – displayed inconsistency and had yet to deliver a tournament-defining moment. I had mentally prepared for a respectable defeat that would save face, but then the game began, and Spain secured a commanding 2-0 victory. Every element felt wonderfully familiar to any Spanish supporter: controlling possession, maintaining defensive solidity, and experiencing minimal genuine concern. This approach initially worried fans during the opening matches, especially the debut against Cape Verde, yet gradually the squad advanced steadily, either overtly or subtly overwhelming rivals – occasionally aided by fortune – en route to reaching the semifinals.
The narrative seemed strangely recognizable, nearly identical to a story I had encountered previously, and suddenly it clicked: this represented Spain at the 2010 World Cup. Allow me to provide context. La Roja arrived in South Africa among the tournament favorites, having captured the 2008 European Championships and mesmerized observers with their distinctive playing philosophy, particularly their extraordinary midfield – remarkably similar to the 2026 squad. The Spanish team experienced a significant setback in their opening fixture, suffering a surprising 1-0 defeat to Switzerland, which resurrected memories of past tournament disappointments for Spanish supporters. Their manager addressed concerns publicly, remarking, “It wasn’t our day … the World Cup hasn’t ended” – echoing sentiments expressed in 2026. Composure returned, and victories accumulated, frequently decided by narrow margins, as they progressed toward the semifinals against another European powerhouse – paralleling the current campaign.
Evolution of a Champion
During the semifinal encounter with Germany, a traditional adversary that Spain had recently overcome, the Spanish side controlled much of the ball and dictated proceedings for the majority of the contest. German opportunities materialized and threatened their net, yet failed to penetrate. The conclusion needs no elaboration. The similarities between this generation’s performances and the legendary 2010 team remain striking, though additional layers exist. This current squad represents an evolution from the tiki-taka juggernaut that ruled football between 2008 and 2012, and examining the Euro 2024 championship reveals this transformation clearly.
The repetitive, possession-heavy approach that numerous nations and clubs learned to neutralize disappeared. In its place emerged vibrant, wing-oriented, exhilarating football that captivated global audiences. The enduring Spanish characteristic remained always a robust midfield and often overlooked defense enabling victories through distinctive methods, yet the Euro 2024 triumph featured two exceptional talents operating on the flanks: Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams. Regrettably, both wing stars entered this World Cup carrying injuries. Luis de la Fuente transported them to North America and demonstrated patience in their recovery, which proved fortunate. Unfortunately, during the opening match versus Cape Verde, the Spanish coach attempted to maintain his Euro 2024 methodology despite lacking his two crucial weapons, and consequences followed – without their speed and capacity to create from nothing, an expected catastrophe unfolded.
While numerous observers, myself included, harbored substantial doubts regarding de la Fuente’s adaptability – going so far as expressing regret over former assistant manager Pablo Amo’s departure, whom many credited as the true architect behind the Euro 2024 success – he has remarkably reverted to Spain’s foundational principles while incorporating his personal signature. Tiki-taka con un poquitín de magia por las bandas (Tiki-taka with a little bit of magic down the wings).
The Midfield Masters
The midfield proved decisive on Tuesday evening, consistent with its role throughout this tournament and Spanish football history. The unit overwhelmed France, generating countless difficulties and frustrations, ultimately reducing the French side to a diminished version of their earlier tournament form. Fabián Ruiz and Dani Olmo delivered exceptional performances, yet Rodri emerged as particularly crucial for La Roja. The Manchester City midfielder has completely regained his 2024 Ballon d’Or-winning brilliance, orchestrating the center, offering remarkable links between attack and defense, and even frustrating French opponents with tactical gamesmanship toward the conclusion. The defensive line remained dependable once more, anchored by experienced leadership that has characterized Spanish success across multiple eras.