Cucurella credits Spain's record defense to entire squad

Spain left back Marc Cucurella dedicated the team's World Cup title to everyone who helped along the way, and said its historic defensive record was built on the sacrifice of the entire squad.

Spain beat Argentina 1-0 after extra time on Sunday to claim its second World Cup title, with substitute Ferran Torres scoring the winner in the 106th minute. La Roja conceded just one goal throughout the tournament and extended its unbeaten run in regulation time to a European-record 38 matches.

"When you don't concede, it's much easier to win. You are only one goal away," Cucurella said in the mixed zone. "We have been doing an incredible job all tournament. Not just the defenders and the goalkeeper, it's everyone's job."

"How Mikel Oyarzabal pressed today, how the midfielders won the second balls... It's a sacrifice from everyone. We attack together, we defend together, and that is one of the keys to this team," he added.

Cucurella also praised midfielder Rodri, who won the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player.

"For us, he is very important. Sometimes it's not about scoring or assisting," the 27-year-old said. "He controls everything, he organizes the team, he decides when we press, he decides when we attack.

"Every time we are under pressure, he gives us a chance to give him the ball. He never loses the ball, and he deserves this trophy because he played an amazing tournament."

Cucurella also revealed he had yet to decide where to get a tattoo of coach Luis de la Fuente to commemorate the victory.

"I have to think about where to get it. People will ask me, so it has to be a visible place. I hope they give me some ideas," he said.

Reflecting on Spain's progress through the tournament, Cucurella said the team had improved with every match.

"Since the first day we arrived, we tried to play our football, our style. We started a bit sloppy in the first games, but step by step we improved. These last two games we played amazing football. We dominated, created chances, controlled the game and conceded nothing."

As the squad prepared for the long flight home, Cucurella said the priority was celebrating with fans in Spain.

"We want to be there, to celebrate with all our people, whom we thank for all the support. We felt at home here because we knew we had so many people behind us. Now it's time to enjoy, remember the stories and disconnect. I think we deserve a great party."