Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente praised his squad's unity and selfless approach after La Roja defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing the nation's second world title.
The victory capped a remarkable run for Spain, who added the World Cup to their Euro 2024 triumph and extended their unbeaten streak to 38 matches in all competitions, the longest ever recorded by a European or South American national team.
An emotional De la Fuente credited the team's success to its collective spirit rather than individual brilliance.
"In the past, people were surprised when footballers were talented, skilled and also good people," he said. "We are the most united team, and that is thanks to having people with values of solidarity."
Spain overcame defending champions Argentina thanks to an extra-time winner from substitute Ferran Torres, whose decisive strike highlighted the squad depth and team-first philosophy that carried the Spaniards through the tournament.
"I am incredibly proud of this generation of footballers," De la Fuente said. "They have embraced this philosophy, improved on it and become an example of what a team and a family should be. They are exceptional players with world-class talent."
Spain enjoyed a dominant defensive campaign, conceding just one goal throughout the tournament. However, they were forced to work hard against a resilient Argentina side and only found the breakthrough in the 115th minute.
Argentina's task became even more difficult after midfielder Enzo Fernández was sent off for a second yellow card during stoppage time at the end of regulation, leaving the defending champions to play extra time with 10 men.
Despite the historic achievement, De la Fuente said he is not looking too far ahead and has yet to decide whether he will remain in charge through to the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
"We are exactly where we want to be, and we are privileged to have these players," he said. "There is no rush. We have to enjoy this moment. Perhaps we will start thinking about September and the next matches, but this is something historic. We will continue taking it one game at a time."
Match-winner Ferran Torres dedicated his goal to the entire country, saying the triumph belonged to all Spaniards rather than any individual player.
"It was a goal scored by 47 million people," Torres said. "It wasn't just mine or the 26 players'. It was destined to happen and it became the winning goal."
The forward also admitted he was relieved to silence critics after facing scrutiny over his performances earlier in the tournament.
"Every final is difficult, and when you're playing against Messi you naturally feel a bit nervous. But I believe we played the better football, and thankfully we got the result."