2014 Spain Away – David Villa #7 XXL

The 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil marked a dramatic turning point for Spain’s national team, ending one of the most dominant eras in international football history. After winning Euro 2008, the 2010 World Cup, and Euro 2012, Spain entered the tournament as reigning champions and overwhelming favorites — yet what followed was a shocking group-stage exit that symbolized the end of their golden generation.

Under Vicente del Bosque, Spain opened their campaign with a devastating 5–1 defeat to the Netherlands, a rematch of the 2010 World Cup final, in which Robin van Persie and Arjen Robben tore through Spain’s high defensive line. The loss was followed by a 2–0 defeat to Chile, confirming their early elimination before the final group match. They finished third in Group B, salvaging a 3–0 win over Australia that offered a bittersweet farewell to several legends — including David Villa, Xabi Alonso, and Xavi Hernández, all of whom retired from international football after the tournament.

The 2014 Spain away kit, made by adidas, stood out for its sleek and modern design: a black base with bright neon yellow trim and stripes, symbolizing power and renewal. It featured a subtle horizontal line pattern across the front, the Spanish crest rendered in monochrome, and a contemporary aesthetic that broke from Spain’s traditional red and blue. While the kit was worn during one of La Roja’s darkest tournaments, it has since become a cult favorite among collectors for its rarity and bold departure from classic designs.

2. Player’s Impact – David Villa

For David Villa, Spain’s all-time leading scorer, the 2014 World Cup represented both an ending and a quiet triumph of legacy. Although he was no longer a guaranteed starter at age 32, Villa remained an influential presence in the squad — a veteran leader in a team transitioning from its golden core. He made three appearances in the tournament, scoring one goal in Spain’s final match against Australia: a trademark backheel finish that fittingly became his last goal in a Spain shirt.

Villa’s international record closed at 59 goals in 98 appearances, an extraordinary tally that cemented his status as one of the greatest forwards in Spanish football history. During the tournament, he showcased the intelligence, off-the-ball movement, and technical finesse that defined his career — even as younger talents like Diego Costa and Pedro were being integrated into the lineup. His farewell performance in the 3–0 win over Australia was emotional; he was substituted in tears as teammates embraced him, recognizing the end of an era.

Tactically, Villa’s role evolved from that of a pure striker to a more fluid forward capable of interchanging across the front line, dropping into pockets to link play. Though Spain’s campaign ended prematurely, Villa’s professionalism, humility, and consistency throughout a decade of dominance left an indelible mark on La Roja’s identity. His departure symbolized the closing chapter of Spain’s most glorious footballing dynasty.

3. Full Squad List (Spain – 2014 World Cup, Brazil)

Manager: Vicente del Bosque

Goalkeepers:
Iker Casillas (captain), Pepe Reina, David de Gea

Defenders:
Sergio Ramos, Gerard Piqué, Jordi Alba, César Azpilicueta, Juanfran, Raúl Albiol, Javi Martínez

Midfielders:
Xavi Hernández, Andrés Iniesta, Xabi Alonso, Sergio Busquets, Cesc Fàbregas, Koke, David Silva, Juan Mata, Santi Cazorla

Forwards:
David Villa, Fernando Torres, Diego Costa, Pedro Rodríguez