WHETHER OR NOT you subscribe to the view that it’s the end of an era for the Spanish football team, there was certainly a sense of sadness palpable during their final World Cup game against Australia yesterday.

Having scored a tremendous backheel goal and played an important role in his team’s comfortable win over their opponents, David Villa was substituted in the 57th minute of the game.

Realising that it would be his last appearance in the Spanish colours, the 32-year-old was understandably emotional upon leaving the field, and broke down in tears as he sat on the bench before being consoled by players and staff.

Such a reaction is hardly a surprise for someone who made an incredible 97 appearances for his country, scoring 59 goals and being part of the sides that won Euro 2008 and World Cup 2010 (he missed out on the Euro 2012 triumph through injury).

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Meanwhile, in a lighter moment, Diego Costa was caught on camera seemingly trying to shave Xabi Alonso’s leg.

Judging by Alonso’s reaction, the results were actually rather impressive, or at least, better than anything Costa’s done on the pitch during the tournament.

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