After a fantastic tournament in Austria and Switzerland, it was Spain that deservedly defeated Germany in the Euro 2008 play-off final thanks to a strike from Liverpool’s Fernando Torres. It really was a convincing victory for the Spanish as they dominated Germany throughout the entire match. If anything, they deserved to win by more than just the one goal.

Before the game, it was no surprise to me that Michael Ballack was declared fit for Germany. His presence wasn’t enough though as they barely threatened Iker Casillas’ goal at all.

During the first half, it was only a matter of time before Spain got themselves on the score sheet. Andres Iniesta – one of the players of the tournament – came close early on as did Torres who watched on as his header bounced off the post to safety.

The Liverpool striker didn’t have to wait long for his goal though as he opened the scoring after 33 minutes. After being played through by Xavi, Torres lifted the ball superbly over Jens Lehmann into the net. I’d like to have sent the football odds of a 3-0 or 4-0 victory for the Spanish, because at this stage – it looked on the cards.

Moving into the second half, it was the same again as far as possession and chances were concerned – both dominated by Spain. They were looking like European Champions, but with the score still at only 1-0 there was still every chance Germany could get themselves back into it. In fact, while watching it, I was convinced that they were going to grab a completely undeserved equaliser. I’d have even put a lot of my football betting money on it.

In the end though, I was pleased that I didn’t. Spain held out for the victory without much threat from Germany in the final few minutes. It was Spain’s first major title in 44 years and they deservedly celebrated in style.

Germany could only reflect after putting in a disappointing performance in the final. I genuinely believe that this is a very poor Germany team and that they can count themselves lucky for even making it to the final. Spain on the other hand, were the best team throughout the tournament and can be proud of their achievement – no one can begrudge them their victory.

As for the tournament as a whole, I thoroughly enjoyed it. There are even suggestions by some that it is one of the greatest tournaments ever. This is a strong statement, but at the moment, I can’t find many reasons to disagree. Fair enough, my expectations of the tournament weren’t huge but I think it delivered the goods in a big way. Here’s why:

- Entertaining matches were a daily ritual – with the Czech Republic v Turkey, Germany v Turkey and Holland v Italy all standing out for me. There were only two 0-0 draws throughout the tournament with each game averaging 2.48 goals per game.

- The negative teams eventually got what they deserved. Italy and Greece were particularly dire to watch and their early exit from the tournament was pleasing for the neutrals.

- The kick off times were perfect. One game post-work at 5pm and another in the evening at 7.45pm. A contrast from the breakfast time kick-offs of some tournaments!

- Holland and Russia. They both produced some fantastic football, with the Dutch getting the tournament off to a flying start with their performances in the group stage. It’s a shame they ‘peaked too early’.

- Finally, and most importantly, the best team won. No one can have any complaints. The football Spain played was breathtaking at times and they are fitting winners to what has been one of the best international tournaments in recent years.

In my next blog on Sunday I will be naming my team of the tournament. In the mean time – who do you think should make the eleven? There are certainly plenty to choose from!