The Spanish weren't favored to repeat as World Cup champions. But few expected the utter collapse that ended Wednesday with a 2-0 loss Chile, knocking Spain from contention and ending the run of the greatest team of the century.
Chile's pace and skill produced a dominating win similar to so many Spanish victories over the past six years. Spain was outplayed, out-run and out-fought.
The 5-1 beating by the Netherlands Friday was shocking and foretold where coach Vicente del Bosque's team was heading: Home.
''If you think about everything accomplished, and you told me we would be eliminated in group stage, I wouldn't believe you,'' del Bosque said.
''We have no excuses. It's a sad day for all of the players.''
Six of Spain's squad has played at least 100 national team games while winning the 2010 World Cup and the European Championships in 2008 and 2012.
''Success is not eternal,'' said Chile coach Jorge Sampaoli, whose hyperactive energy around the dugout was shared by his team. ''This generation could not continue with that success and you can understand it.''
