2004 Spain Home – Xavi #20 XL

The 2004 European Championship, held in Portugal, was a sobering and transitional tournament for Spain national football team. Managed by Iñaki Sáez, Spain arrived with quiet optimism, boasting a technically gifted squad that hinted at a brighter future — even if the present remained uncertain. At the time, Spain were still burdened by a reputation for underachievement at major tournaments, often falling short despite evident quality.

Drawn into Group A alongside hosts Portugal, Greece, and Russia, Spain began the competition with a 1–0 victory over Russia, thanks to a late goal from Valerón. However, a narrow 1–0 defeat to Greece in the second match proved costly, exposing Spain’s lack of cutting edge and tournament ruthlessness. Needing a win in their final group game, Spain defeated Portugal 1–0, but results elsewhere meant they were eliminated on goal difference, finishing third in the group.

The early exit was a major disappointment, particularly given Greece would go on to win the tournament. In hindsight, Euro 2004 is remembered less for Spain’s results and more as a bridge between eras — the final appearance of the old guard and the quiet emergence of a midfield generation that would soon dominate world football.

The 2004 Spain home kit, produced by adidas, featured a classic deep red base, gold detailing, and a clean, traditional cut. Minimalist and elegant, it reflected Spain’s historical identity while unknowingly dressing the early architects of the tiki-taka era. Today, it stands as a highly collectible vintage football shirt tied to the dawn of a golden generation.

2. Player’s Impact – Xavi Hernández

At just 24 years old, Xavi Hernández entered Euro 2004 as a promising but not yet central figure in the Spanish setup. Still developing his authority at FC Barcelona, Xavi was beginning to define the principles that would later reshape both club and country.

Xavi featured in all three group-stage matches, contributing one goal — a composed finish against Russia — and showcasing his growing command of midfield space. Deployed primarily as a central midfielder, he demonstrated early signs of the qualities that would define his career: constant availability, precise short passing, and an instinctive understanding of tempo control.

Although Spain’s campaign ended prematurely, Xavi’s performances stood out for their calmness and intelligence. In a team often reliant on individual flair, he offered structure and rhythm, helping Spain retain possession and progress the ball methodically. His partnership with younger midfielders hinted at a future identity built not on moments, but on sustained control.

Euro 2004 did not yet belong to Xavi — but it was the tournament that introduced him as Spain’s future conductor. Within four years, he would become the heartbeat of a team that transformed international football forever.

3. Full Squad List (Spain – Euro 2004, Portugal)

Manager: Iñaki Sáez

Goalkeepers:
Iker Casillas, Santiago Cañizares, César Sánchez

Defenders:
Carles Puyol, Fernando Hierro, Carlos Marchena, Iván Helguera, Míchel Salgado, Juanfran, Joan Capdevila

Midfielders:
Xavi Hernández, Xabi Alonso, Rubén Baraja, David Albelda, Joaquín, Vicente Rodríguez, Gaizka Mendieta, Juan Carlos Valerón

Forwards:
Raúl González (captain), Fernando Morientes, Fernando Torres, Diego Tristán