Four years ago in Soccer City, as the World Cup final between Spain and Holland ebbed towards a shoot-out, there was concern on the Spanish bench.

Reaction to Friday’s difficult World Cup group stages draw was surprisingly confident in the Spanish camp.

Spain coach Vicente del Bosque has no regrets over passing up the chance to eliminate Italy from Euro 2012 ahead of his side’s meeting with Cesare Prandelli’s men in Sunday’s final.