Spain’s dominance of global football was brought to a crushing end as they were knocked out of the World Cup by an impressive Chile.
The defending Champions were aiming to become the first nation to retain the title since Brazil in 1962. But, after losing their opening match 5-1 to the Netherlands they surrendered their crown in a cauldron of noise in the Maracana.
First-half goals from Eduardo Vargas and Charles Aranguiz did the damage as Spain failed to contain the rampant Chileans, or muster a response of any real substance.
Their elimination means they are the fifth defending champions to fail to progress from the group stage at the World Cup.
It was Chile’s first competitive victory over Spain in 11 matches – and just reward for an attacking masterclass.
