Andrés Iniesta

The midfielder who scored the winning goal in the 2010 World Cup final against the Netherlands.

Andrés Iniesta Luján is a Spanish professional football manager and former player who played for Spain at the Under-16, Under-19 and Under-21 levels before making his international debut in 2006. He helped Spain win UEFA Euro 2008, playing every game and being selected in the Team of the Tournament. Iniesta was also a key member of the victorious Spanish team at the 2010 FIFA World Cup; he scored the winning goal in the final against the Netherlands, for which he was named the Man of the Match, and was selected to the tournament's All-Star Team. At UEFA Euro 2012, Iniesta led Spain to their second consecutive continental crown, again being chosen as the Man of the Match of the final against Italy, and was named the Player of the Tournament.

Quick Facts

Full name: Andrés Iniesta Luján
Born: 11 May 1984
Birthplace: Fuentealbilla, Spain
Height: 1.71 m / 5 ft 7 in
Position: Midfielder
Current club: Gulf United (manager)
Total caps: 625
Total goals: 66

Lore & Background

Iniesta's international legacy is defined by his performances in three consecutive major tournament victories. At UEFA Euro 2008, he played every game and was selected in the Team of the Tournament. At the 2010 FIFA World Cup, he scored the winning goal in the final against the Netherlands, earning Man of the Match honors and a spot in the tournament's All-Star Team. His performances in 2010 for both club and country saw him finish runner-up to Lionel Messi for the 2010 FIFA Ballon d'Or. At UEFA Euro 2012, he led Spain to their second consecutive continental crown, was named Man of the Match in the final against Italy, and was chosen as the Player of the Tournament. He achieved third place in the 2012 Ballon d'Or. In 2016, he was named in the All-time UEFA Euro XI.

Gallery

Andrés Iniesta — Castroquini · CC BY-SA 3.0

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Andrés Iniesta's signature moment?

His defining achievement came in the 2010 FIFA World Cup Final, where he scored the late winning goal against the Netherlands. This magical strike secured Spain's first-ever World Cup trophy and cemented his legendary status.

How did Iniesta's international career end?

After a historic run that included three major tournament victories, Iniesta officially retired from international football in 2018. He left the national team as one of its most celebrated figures with a legacy defined by grace and success.