Spain’s players celebrate with the trophy after the Euro 2008 championships final between Germany and Spain in Vienna, Austria, on June 29, 2008. A first-half goal from Fernando Torres earned Spain the first UEFA European Championship in 44 years. (Xinhua/Guo Yong)

VIENNA, June 29 (Xinhua) — Spain won the Euro 2008 title after beating Germany 1-0 in Ernst-Happel Stadion on Sunday.

Striker Fernando Torres’ strike at the 33rd minute proved the winner of the match.

The Spanish team, without leading scorer David Villa due to injury, fielded a five-player midfield and thus took an upper handover their German opponents which adopted the same formation.

The Spanish team dominated the midfield through fluent passing and Torres was a constant threat to the German goal.

Spain’s Fernando Torres (C) scores as Germany’s goalie Jens Lehmann (L) saves during the Euro 2008 championships final between Germany and Spain in Vienna, Austria, on June 29, 2008. A first-half goal from Fernando Torres earned Spain the first UEFA European Championship in 44 years.(Xinhua/Lu Mingxiang)

Torres could have broken the deadlock at the 20th minute but his header was denied by the post.

Cesc Fabregas, who made his first start in the tournament, seemed not used to his new role and was substituted out in the second half.

German coach made three substitutions in the second half, trying to turn the tide over. But his team just could not take over the initiative from the Spanish midfield led by Andres Iniesta.

The Spanish team kept the ball on the group and penetrated the German defence with neat short passes. They could have scored more goals if not for poor finishing.

The Spanish team had 13 attempts at the goal while Germany only had 4.

German captain Michael Ballack came close for Germany, shooting narrowly wide after the break.

It is the second time Spain win the European championship. Their only other European title was won 44 years ago.

SOURCE: http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-06/30/content_8460119.htm

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