Marchena: Our time has come

Carlos Marchena believes Spain are destined for the World Cup title, insisting the time for one of football's biggest underachievers has now come.

La Furia Roja have undoubtedly been the best team on the planet over the past 24 months, which began with their crowning as European champions. They came to South Africa as one of the favourites, and despite not looking entirely convincing, have progressed steadily through to the final where they now come up against Holland.

"I believe the history of football owes us this one," he said. "There have been great moments in our history where fortune did not end up on our side."

He added: "We have been through several great disappointments over the years. We tried hard then, but without any luck.

"Perhaps this time we are to change those bitter moments. I hope Sunday is one of those beautiful moments, which are to be remembered in a good way for the rest of our lives."

The Valencia defender, who has appeared mainly as a substitute so far, has hailed the team spirit within Vicente del Bosque's side.

He also went as far as to say that it was perhaps the main reason why this group of players had succeeded where others in the past had failed.

He continued: "There have been great national teams before, but this team is the one that has been able to be the best 'team'.

"This is how it has managed to get where it is and it's a great credit to our players.

"In this moment, we're making up for all those bitter moments we've suffered. We know the expectations are huge here and in Spain. Hopefully the best times are to come."