Germany’s Joachim Loew has a contract through the 2010 World Cup, but will need to find the spark Germany showed only periodically in Austria and Switzerland.

“Spain played very well during the whole tournament. and they were technically excellent,” Loew said. “They fully deserve victory.”

A crowd of about 68,000 packed Vienna’s downtown fan zone to watch the final, police said. In Germany, flags fluttered from balconies and car antennas across the country. In Berlin, an estimated 400,000 fans watched the game on large outdoor screens.

Spain has never made a World Cup final and was in one other Euros final, aside from the 1964 triumph. That was a loss to France in 1984.

Otherwise, there had been nothing but disappointment and early exits from big tournaments. Two years ago, the Spaniards were dynamic in the opening round in Germany, then fizzled against France.

With two of the world’s top clubs, Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, the nation has tons of talent. What it has lacked is fortitude.

No one can say that anymore.

MORE FROM SOCCER

Soccer Section Front

Beckham, Galaxy trying to continue hot streak Slideshow: The life of Beckham on and off the field Real Salt Lake, Chicago Fire set for showdown Widow: Germany goalkeeper Enke was depressed Germany stunned by Enke's suicide death Germany-Chile game canceled after Enke's death Opinion: All guns are blazing at Arsenal US player Charlie Davies released from hospital Maradona to attend FIFA disciplinary hearing MLS scores, schedules, standings, more Soccer Section Front   Add Soccer headlines to your news reader: