Sad end to Iniesta’s finals dream

Andres Iniesta announced his retirement from international football following Spain’s exit.

The 34-year-old, who scored Spain’s match-winning goal in the 2010 World Cup final, confirmed his decision after La Roja’s last-16 loss to Russia.

Iniesta scored Spain’s first penalty in the shoot-out but was powerless to prevent his side tumbling out of the tournament.

The playmaker, who recently left Barcelona to join Japanese side Vissel Kobe, won 131 caps for Spain.

He said on sefutbol.com: “Sometimes the finals are not how you dream them.

“It’s true that it is my last match with the national team, on a personal level it’s the end of a magnificent phase.

“Overall, I think it’s the saddest day of my career.”

Iniesta also helped La Roja win the European Championships in 2008 and 2012 during an international career that spanned 12 years.

He leaves a big hole to fill, but said of the national team: “There are replacements, players are there, the important thing is to find the way to success again.”

The Spanish FA said: “Spanish football will miss you. Thank you for everything, Andres.”

Federation president Luis Rubiales also insisted he has no regrets over the decision to sack coach Julen Lopetegui on the eve of the World Cup.

Lopetegui was relieved of his duties just days before Spain’s opening match after agreeing to become Real Madrid boss.

Rubiales stood by his decision to dismiss Lopetegui and praised the work done by standin Fernando Hierro.

“I don’t regret the decision taken with Lopetegui because it was done with conviction and values that aren’t influenced by subsequent results,” he said.

“All my board of directors gave me unanimous support, we are very calm.

“I’m proud of the way Hierro and his staff have behaved. He (Hierro) has assumed this responsibility with bravery.

“In the coming weeks we will see what’s best for everyone.”

Andres Iniesta has called it a day after winning 131 caps for Spain.