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Holland v Spain preview

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{jcomments off}There will be a new nation engraved on the World Cup trophy come Sunday evening as European heavyweights Holland and Spain clash in the final at Johannesburg's Soccer City stadium.

The Dutch will be hoping it's a case of 'third time lucky' following final heartbreak in the 1974 and '78 finals, while this is Spain's first date with destiny.

World domination for Spain

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{jcomments off}Andres Iniesta's strike with four minutes left of extra-time fired Spain to World Cup glory for the first time in their history as they vanquished Holland in a fractious final at Johannesburg's Soccer City stadium.

In an encounter riddled with persistent fouling, in particular from the Dutch, who had John Heitinga dismissed late on, Spain emerged as victors courtesy of Iniesta's effort that came in the 116th minute of the tie.

Diego Maradona's tenure as Argentina coach ends

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{jcomments off}Diego Maradona's reign as Argentina coach has ended, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has confirmed.

Maradona, 49, admitted he wanted to stay in the job ahead of a meeting with AFA president Julio Grondona on Monday.

But, after Maradona rejected demands to change his backroom team, the AFA voted not to renew his deal and made under-20 coach Sergio Batista caretaker boss.

Raul signs for Schalke after leaving Real Madrid

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{jcomments on}Former Spain striker Raul has joined German side Schalke after ending his 18-year career with Real Madrid.

The 33-year-old, who announced his departure from the Spanish giants on Monday, had hinted he could make a move to a Premier League side in England.

But on Wednesday he signed a two-year deal with Schalke, who finished second in the Bundesliga last season.

Liverpool 1 - 1 Arsenal

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A mistake by Liverpool keeper Pepe Reina allowed Arsenal to salvage a draw against a Reds side who had Joe Cole sent off on his Premier League debut.

Cole was red-carded for a lunge on Laurent Koscielny before David Ngog's driven shot put Liverpool ahead.

The lead lasted until the last minute when Marouane Chamakh diverted a cross against the post and Reina spilled the rebound into his own net.