Cesc displays golden touch

Jubilant scenes
After a pulsating 90 minutes ended 2-2, it seemed the game was destined to be decided on penalties until the outstanding Cesc popped up to spark scenes of jubilation in the European team's dugout.

Curling finish
Spain had to come from behind after Lucas Biglia headed the South Americans into a third-minute lead and Garay made it 2-0 just past the half-hour mark. But three minutes after the interval Cesc produced a delightful curling finish to get Spain back into the game - and they never looked back.

Jurado strikes
Five minutes later the European team were back on level terms, Sisi nodding down Xisco's centre for Jurado to drill a sweet left-foot strike into the corner. On 56 minutes Argentina were reduced to ten men when Cardozo was sent off for a strong two-footed challenge on Ruz, who received a red card himself for a second booking five minutes before Cesc's fifth goal of the tournament, a rising angled drive which screamed into the top corner to put Spain into the final.

'Desire and ability'
Spain coach Juan Santisteban was always confident his side would progress. "We always knew it was going to be a very competitive match," he said. "I told them at half-time to show what I already knew they had - the desire and ability to turn the match around. I am just so proud."

Brazil lie waiting
Looking forward to the final, Santisteban added: "They are probably the best team in the world in every category - but we are going to give Brazil our best shot."