Stylish win has Spain looking to a bright future

By Mark Elkington

MADRID (Reuters) - The Spanish media revelled in their side's impressive Euro 2008 final victory over Germany as the story dominated the front pages of every newspaper on Monday.

"We are the Champions" sang sports dailies Marca and AS who had colour wrap-round front pages, with captain and goalkeeper Iker Casillas lifting the trophy.

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres grabbed the only goal of the game in Vienna on Sunday for Spain to win only their second major trophy, 44 years after winning the European Championship on home turf in 1964.

The media praised the side's team spirit and the way different figures had stepped forward throughout the tournament to lead the side to victory, proving their strength in depth.

"David Villa was the protagonist against Russia and Sweden. Xabi Alonso rose above the rest against Greece. Iker Casillas reappeared in all his splendour against Italy," Marca said.

"Cesc Fabregas established himself against Russia and this time the glory went to Torres."

Coach Luis Aragones, who is stepping down and appears set to join Turkish side Fenerbahce, was credited with having forged that unity.

Although his substitutions have been questioned in some quarters of the media, he was championed for having stuck to his guns under intense pressure for leaving out experienced players such as Raul and Santiago Canizares, and for going with youth.