Spain’s football dominance is unparalleled at the moment, with achievements spanning all levels of the sport. This summer, the men’s national team secured the European Championship title by defeating England, while the women’s team claimed the World Cup last year. In club football, Spanish teams hold the top honors, with Real Madrid and Barcelona winning the men’s and women’s Champions League respectively last season.
Spain might soon add an Olympic gold medal to their impressive list, as the men’s team is set to compete in the final in Paris this Friday. The women’s team, however, fell short in the semi-finals against Brazil.
This streak of success is remarkable, particularly given the recent turmoil stemming from the sexism scandal that marred the women’s World Cup victory. Despite these challenges, Spain’s footballing achievements continue to impress and may be unsettling for rival countries.
Key Factors Behind Spain’s Dominance
1. Cultivating a Winning Culture Across Levels
Spain’s victory at the 2024 European Championship marked their first Euros title since 2012, following a period of relative inactivity. Historically, when Spanish teams reach the latter stages of major tournaments, they tend to win. An impressive statistic reveals that in the last 27 men’s finals involving Spanish teams, all 27 ended in victories for Spain.
The women’s game in Spain has also flourished over the past decade, with notable successes emerging from high-pressure matches. Spain’s women, who won the Women’s World Cup in their third appearance, have also clinched the Nations League earlier this year and secured the last two Women’s Champions League titles with Barcelona.
Maria Garrido, a former player turned journalist, highlights the significant strides in women’s football in Spain. She notes the transformation from a time when female players had to cover their own expenses to the current era of improved facilities and youth programs. This progress has elevated the respect and success of women’s football in Spain.
2. Continuity in Coaching
Familiarity and continuity in coaching have played a critical role in Spain’s recent successes. Luis de la Fuente, who led the men’s team to Euro 2024 victory, had a deep understanding of his players from his previous roles with the Under-19s, Under-21s, and Under-23s. This continuity contributed to a unified team approach.
Jorge Vilda, who managed the women’s team to World Cup victory before being replaced amid the sexism scandal, had previously led the Under-17 and Under-19 teams to success. His successor, Montse Tome, the first female head coach of Spain, continued the winning momentum by guiding the team to Nations League victory.
The promotion of coaches from youth levels to senior teams has fostered a consistent tactical philosophy, ensuring a coherent style of play across all levels.
3. A Defined Playing Style
Spain’s footballing style has evolved from the ‘tiki-taka’ era of the late 2000s and early 2010s. While possession remains important, it is no longer the sole focus. Recent matches, like Spain’s 3-0 win over Croatia at Euro 2024, demonstrated a balance between possession and technical prowess, reflecting an evolved approach that still adheres to core Spanish principles.
4. Impact of the Sexism Scandal
Despite the recent successes, Spanish football has faced challenges due to the sexism scandal involving former federation president Luis Rubiales, who resigned after criticism for an unwanted kiss during the Women’s World Cup medal ceremony. While this controversy has cast a shadow, the strength of Spain’s football system and the talent of its players have helped maintain their success.
Maria Garrido points out that while the scandal has affected morale, it could lead to positive changes, including greater transparency, inclusivity, and gender equality in Spanish football. These reforms could further enhance Spain’s footballing achievements and ensure continued growth.
In summary, Spain’s football dominance is the result of a robust winning culture, continuity in coaching, an evolving playing style, and resilience amidst controversies.
