Casillas: We proved ourselves

Captain Iker Casillas believes Spain's successful Euro 2008 campaign will enable the country to shake off their tag as perennial underachievers.

Luis Aragones' men clinched their first major title in 44 years by beating Germany 1-0 in the final courtesy of Fernando Torres' first-half goal.

"We have done a great job together as a team," said Casillas. "I'm delighted for my team-mates and for myself because we have shown we are great players. I think we needed to prove that point in Europe. We have done our nation proud."

David Villa struck four goals to become the first Spaniard to win the golden boot at a European Championship, with an injury-time winner against Sweden adding to a hat-trick against Russia in the opening group game, but fortunately Torres took over the mantle to fire Spain to glory.

Fluidity and creativity have been Spain's trademarks in Austria and Switzerland and Casillas believes that was the only way Spain could finish the job in Vienna.

"I believe we have played great football," said the Real Madrid goalkeeper. "Had we not played so well we wouldn't have been able to win this European Championship.

"I think every player in this team has been crucial in this tournament.

"I think Torres is a fantastic player and so is Villa.

"But it's unfair to say that Torres has been the best player because I think every player has been crucial and above any player there's the team."

Casillas hailed manager Luis Aragones, who leaves his post on a high saying: "Aragones has done a great job. He made us believe that it could be done from day one."