NEW YORK, July 19 (Xinhua) -- Head coach Luis de la Fuente hailed his players' unity after Spain secured the World Cup title with a 1-0 extra-time win over Argentina in the final on Sunday.
Second-half substitute Ferran Torres scored the winner in the 106th minute as Spain clinched its second World Cup crown and first since 2010.
"So much pride. Pride for this generation of footballers that have been growing with this idea, staying loyal to the idea, and doing their best," De la Fuente said after the match.
"They are an example of a team, a group, a family, and a collective of great players that have been exceptional. I'm just so proud to have accompanied them on this journey, to have been there with them on this trajectory is an honour."
Spain also dominated the individual awards presented after the match at New York New Jersey Stadium. Captain Rodri was named player of the tournament, defender Pau Cubarsi was crowned the best young player and Unai Simon won the Golden Glove for the best goalkeeper.
The European side was unbeaten throughout the competition, conceding just one goal in eight games.
De la Fuente said his players were deserving of all the accolades that came their way.
"I can't really tell you how I feel," he said. "All I can say was it was worth it. Of course at the moment I am very emotional, particularly having watched from behind the scenes. I have spoken so much to the players, who said to me, 'Boss, we've won it all', and it's marvellous. This generation of players is an example for Spanish sport, for the Spanish youth. Together we are much stronger, and that is why we don't forget anyone."
Despite dominating possession and looking more dangerous in attack, Spain was constantly thwarted by Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who made 11 saves in the match.
"Of course we would have liked to win the game much sooner," De La Fuente said, adding that the 93rd-minute dismissal of Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez had done little to change the momentum.
"We tried and tried to get on the scoresheet but weren't able to, but this is a World Cup final, even against 10 men at the end we had to suffer," he said. "But, we like to suffer, and I'll say it again, we were prepared for everything." ■
