Spain captain Iker Casillas concedes it will take time for him and his team-mates to realise the magnitude of their World Cup victory after securing the title with a 1-0 win over Holland.
Spain, who have been one of the biggest underachievers in the game's history, capped a remarkable two years by adding the world title to their Euro 2008 triumph thanks to Andres Iniesta's extra-time strike.
"It's a historic moment for Spanish football," the Real Madrid goalkeeper said. "This achievement is something that we, the players, are still not aware of...what the significance really is. I think it's something we will only realise over time."
Casillas also walked away with the Golden Glove awarded, handed to the best goalkeeper in the competition, for his overall efforts in South Africa.
The 29-year-old, a veteran of more than 100 caps, was mainly a spectator against the Dutch, but had to make two crucial saves from Arjen Robben either side of half-time.
He refused to take any individual plaudits, saying: "I'm not a saint, not at all. I have a lot of experience after putting in a lot.
"I have been gifted and have had lots of support from all my family and friends, so I am really overjoyed today."
And he hailed the team's overall display at the finals, rating it even higher than the European success two years ago.
He added: "It's what we have dreamt of since we were children. It is truly a special time and certainly a much happier moment than when we won the European championships. We are now the world champions.
"It was not easy, but luckily we managed to win. We've earned this victory from beginning to end. It's been almost 50 days of full concentration. That in itself is very complicated, very difficult and gives an idea of what this group has done."
Source: PA
