Spanish Athletes Rally Behind National Team Ahead of Final

Excitement for tonight’s final between Spain and Argentina has moved well beyond the sports pages. Figures from across the Spanish sporting world, speaking to La Provincia, have shared their memories of the historic 2010 World Cup win in South Africa. These stories show just how much that first title meant to the country, uniting athletes from sports as varied as handball, basketball, and volleyball.

When it comes to tonight’s match, there is a clear consensus: most expect Spain to win. Former footballer Juan Carlos Valerón, who celebrated the 2010 victory with his family, is among those backing the team. Basketball player Pablo Aguilar, who remembers the 2010 win as a wild, private celebration, predicts a 2-0 victory. Another player, who watched the 2010 final live in the stadium surrounded by Dutch fans, shares that same 2-0 prediction.

The memories of Andrés Iniesta’s winning goal in 2010 span the globe. A handball player from Gran Canaria watched it in the early hours of the morning in India, while a volleyball player in Soria celebrated alongside her national teammates. Others, including a Valencian goalkeeper and an Aragonese forward, remember listening to the radio at home with their families. A player for the Guaguas volleyball club even recalls the moment while traveling home from a tournament in Brazil. These stories highlight how the national team has become a powerful force for social unity.

Beyond the nostalgia, the predictions—mostly 2-1 or 2-0 in favor of Spain—reflect a genuine belief in the current team’s talent. As these athletes prepare to watch the match from all corners of the globe, they share a common sense of optimism. Having reached the top of their own sports, they understand exactly what it takes to compete at this level and are confident that Spain is ready to claim a second world title.