The World Cup of stars ended with a trophy lift for the team whose strength lies in its collective.
Spain, so understated in its brilliance, is on top of the world, winning a championship with 1,000 cuts.
The last came in East Rutherford on Sunday when Ferran Torres’ left foot gave Spain its deliverance after 106 long minutes.
After an afternoon Spain had spent searching for a way past the imperious Emiliano Martínez, that was all it needed for a 1-0 victory and the second World Cup title in its history.
This team, with its deliberate nature, seemingly endless possession and short passing, brought to mind the first Spanish champions, back in 2010, that won all tournament long.
So too did this final fittingly resemble 2010’s — right down to Spain’s extra-time winner against an opponent down to 10 men.
It would be inaccurate to say Spain won this tournament without any stars, given Lamine Yamal’s prominence both on the field and commercially, and given that Rodri is a Ballon d’Or winner in midfield.
But all tournament long, their contributions were almost entirely off the scoresheet.
So it was as well Sunday when Spain, just like it has all tournament, slowly wrapped its grip around Argentina until a goal felt inevitable……
image….Ferran Torres celebrates his goal during the World Cup final July 19. Getty ….
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