Andrés Iniesta
The midfielder who scored the winning goal in the 2010 World Cup final against the Netherlands.
Andrés Iniesta Luján is a Spanish professional football manager and former player who played for Spain at the Under-16, Under-19 and Under-21 levels before making his international debut in 2006. He helped Spain win UEFA Euro 2008, playing every game and being selected in the Team of the Tournament. Iniesta was also a key member of the victorious Spanish team at the 2010 FIFA World Cup; he scored the winning goal in the final against the Netherlands, for which he was named the Man of the Match, and was selected to the tournament's All-Star Team. At UEFA Euro 2012, Iniesta led Spain to their second consecutive continental crown, again being chosen as the Man of the Match of the final against Italy, and was named the Player of the Tournament.
- Major Honours
- 2010 FIFA World Cup, UEFA Euro 2008, UEFA Euro 2012
- Signature Moment
- Winning Goal in 2010 World Cup Final
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Iniesta's international legacy is defined by his performances in three consecutive major tournament victories. At UEFA Euro 2008, he played every game and was selected in the Team of the Tournament. At the 2010 FIFA World Cup, he scored the winning goal in the final against the Netherlands, earning Man of the Match honors and a spot in the tournament's All-Star Team. His performances in 2010 for both club and country saw him finish runner-up to Lionel Messi for the 2010 FIFA Ballon d'Or. At UEFA Euro 2012, he led Spain to their second consecutive continental crown, was named Man of the Match in the final against Italy, and was chosen as the Player of the Tournament. He achieved third place in the 2012 Ballon d'Or. In 2016, he was named in the All-time UEFA Euro XI.
In Their Own Story
The 2010 FIFA World Cup final against the Netherlands was a tense, physical match. With the score 0–0 after extra time, Iniesta scored the winning goal in stoppage time, securing Spain's first World Cup title. He was named Man of the Match for his performance. This goal came after he had already helped Spain win UEFA Euro 2008, playing every game and being selected in the Team of the Tournament. At UEFA Euro 2012, he again led Spain to victory, being named Man of the Match in the final against Italy and receiving the Player of the Tournament award.
Reader's Guide
Andrés Iniesta's international career with Spain is marked by three major tournament wins: UEFA Euro 2008, the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and UEFA Euro 2012. He played every game at Euro 2008 and was selected in the Team of the Tournament. At the 2010 World Cup, he scored the winning goal in the final against the Netherlands, earning Man of the Match and a place in the All-Star Team. At Euro 2012, he was named Man of the Match in the final against Italy and was chosen as the Player of the Tournament. He finished runner-up for the 2010 FIFA Ballon d'Or and third in the 2012 Ballon d'Or. In 2016, he was named in the All-time UEFA Euro XI.
Did You Know?
- Iniesta scored the winning goal in the 2010 FIFA World Cup final against the Netherlands in stoppage time of extra time.
- He was named Player of the Tournament at UEFA Euro 2012.
- Iniesta was runner-up for the 2010 FIFA Ballon d'Or and third in the 2012 Ballon d'Or.
- He was named in the All-time UEFA Euro XI in 2016.
- Iniesta played every game for Spain at UEFA Euro 2008 and was selected in the Team of the Tournament.
Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Andrés Iniesta?
Andrés Iniesta Luján is a retired Spanish central midfielder widely regarded as one of the greatest players in national team history. He was the creative engine of Spain's Golden Generation, leading them to unprecedented success between 2006 and 2014.
What role did Iniesta play for Spain?
Operating primarily as a central midfielder, he used his exceptional close control and vision to dictate the tempo of matches. His calm demeanor under pressure allowed him to unlock defenses while maintaining possession for his teammates.
Why is Iniesta considered so important?
He was indispensable during Spain's most successful era, helping them secure their first World Cup title along with two European Championships. His technical mastery and ability to perform in high-stakes tournaments defined the team's elegant playing style.
What is Andrés Iniesta's signature moment?
His defining achievement came in the 2010 FIFA World Cup Final, where he scored the late winning goal against the Netherlands. This magical strike secured Spain's first-ever World Cup trophy and cemented his legendary status.
How did Iniesta's international career end?
After a historic run that included three major tournament victories, Iniesta officially retired from international football in 2018. He left the national team as one of its most celebrated figures with a legacy defined by grace and success.
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