The final that broke Dutch hearts
Johannesburg's Soccer City saw 14 yellow cards and a red for Johnny Heitinga in a brutal final. Spain dominated possession but needed 116 minutes before Iniesta volleyed Cesc Fàbregas' through ball past Maarten Stekelenburg. It remains the only World Cup final decided in extra time without penalties. Nigel de Jong's karate kick on Xabi Alonso went unpunished — Howard Webb later admitted he should've sent him off.
Vuvuzelas and Jabulani controversy
The tournament's soundtrack was the deafening drone of plastic vuvuzela horns, peaking at 127 decibels during South Africa's opener against Mexico. Players hated Adidas' Jabulani ball — Brazil's Julio Cesar called it 'supernatural' after its erratic movement contributed to Robert Green's infamous fumble against USA. Only 2.7 goals per game made it the lowest-scoring World Cup since 1990.
Spain's tiki-taka perfected
Vicente del Bosque's side completed 4,309 passes in the tournament — 700 more than any team since Opta tracking began. Xavi averaged 118 passes per game, with David Villa scoring five of their eight total goals. Their 1-0 wins against Portugal, Paraguay, and Germany in the knockouts set a record for narrowest title run. Casillas' save on Arjen Robben in the final remains iconic.
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Frequently asked questions
Who scored the winning goal in the 2010 World Cup final?+
Andrés Iniesta scored Spain's winner in the 116th minute against the Netherlands.
Which country hosted the 2010 World Cup?+
South Africa became the first African nation to host, using venues like Soccer City in Johannesburg and Cape Town Stadium.
How many goals did David Villa score in 2010?+
Villa netted five goals, including the winner against Portugal in the Round of 16 and both goals in the 2-1 quarterfinal win over Paraguay.
Why was the 2010 ball controversial?+
Adidas' Jabulani ball had unpredictable flight due to its smooth surface and 8-panel design, with keepers like Brazil's Júlio César calling it 'terrible'.
Which player got a red card in the final?+
Netherlands defender Johnny Heitinga received a second yellow in the 109th minute for hauling down Iniesta.