The two pre-tournament favorites, Germany and Spain, ended up fighting through their respective draws to clash in the Euro 2008 final.
Spanish striker Fernando Torres played beautifully all day, getting behind the German defense on numerous occasions. After the Germans controlled the first ten minutes, Torres snuck behind defender Philipp Lahm to score a terrific goal, which proved the game-winner.
German captain Michael Ballack started after previously being ruled doubtful due to a calf injury. Ballack played quite poorly, doing more arguing than playing.
As a beloved German fan, this loss hurts. It has now been more than a decade since the Germans have claimed a major tournament title.
However, I must admit, the better team won tonight. Spain outplayed the Germans on the offensive end, and had the slight edge on the defensive side of the pitch.
Spanish coach Luis Aragones did a remarkable job of maintaining his team the way they should have played, and Joachim Loew did an admirable job as well.
The player of the tournament, however, was perhaps Spain's goalie and captain, Iker Casillas. Although he was not tested much in the final, he made some brilliant saves throughout the campaign.
Congratulations, Spain. You earned this one.
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