Andrés Iniesta named best player of EURO 2012
The FC Barcelona midfielder wins the award that his fellow Barça teammate, Xavi Hernández, won in the 2008 EURO. Iniesta was named man of the match against Italy (Group Stage), Croatia and in the final against the Azzurri.
Barcelona (FCB).- After Xavi Hernández was named the best player of the Eurocup in 2008, another Barça player was given the distinguished honour in this edition of the competition. This time it was Andrés Iniesta’s turn. The FC Barcelona player was named MVP of the Poland and Ukraine EURO after the Spanish national team defeated Italy by 4 goals to 0. The Spaniard was also named the man of the match ahead of his club teammates Xavi and Jordi Alba, both of whom had fantastic performances.
Three ‘man of the match’ awards
Iniesta was named the man of the match in three of Spain’s six games thanks to his brilliant performances in the EURO. The first was against Italy, the second was against Croatia and, finally, in the title match against Azzurri. In addition, Iniesta was subbed out in the final on 88 minutes and he received a standing ovation from the supporters. The Barça midfield maestro's strong showing in the EURO means that he’ll most likely be a strong contender for the Ballon d’Or this year.
Key in Del Bosque’s lineups
Iniesta featured in Spain’s starting lineup throughout the tournament, he played a total of 551 minutes out the possible 570. A key player for Del Bosque on offence, Iniesta gave one assist and pulled the strings when Spain went on the attack. In the final against Italy, he gave a brilliant pass to Cesc Fàbregas, who assisted Silva for Spain’s first goal. Moreover, he’s shown a great level of understanding with his new Barça teammate, Jordi Alba. This award is undoubtedly a reflection of how important FC Barcelona is the Spanish national team.
Subbed out when the result was secure
Andrés Iniesta was subbed out on three occasions during Spain’s EURO campaign. On all three occasions, Del Bosque decided to sub the Barça midfielder out when Spain already had victory within its grasp (Ireland, France and Italy).