Shawn Francis, MLS Insider
Netherlands 2, Spain 0. A scoreless loss to the Dutch isn’t so much an indictment of the Spanish defense as it is of their offense. Spain’s somewhat meager attack—they’ve only scored eight goals over six matches compared to Holland’s 12 over the same period—would have to blossom suddenly for them to overrun the Netherlands and that’s not likely to happen. As for the Oranje, if they can keep David Villa from becoming a factor, they should lift their first trophy handily.
David Agrell, new media editor
Netherlands 0, Spain 2. I’m going with Spain for two reasons: They’re in my pool, and Paul the Octopus picked them. Seriously, though, I think Spain have the edge in terms of midfield talent—where I think this game will be won—and their superior defense will do just enough to lock down the famed Dutch attack. Plus, they’re only two years removed from grinding down a very good Germany team in the Euro final, and that experience will make a difference.
Jonah Freedman, managing editor
Netherlands 1, Spain 2. Not that we're keeping score here, but I had the Netherlands as my dark-horse pick (and Brazil and Spain as my out-on-a-limb final pick). I liked the togetherness the Dutch seemed to show, and their defense was more encouraging than in years past. But let's face it, this final is a gift from the footballing gods. The ball should move around more than LeBron James' loyalties, and we could be in for a classic with a highlight goal or two. Or at least, that's what I keep telling myself. Let's hope this isn't Jabulani's Revenge.
Nick Firchau, new media editor
Netherlands 1, Spain 2. David Villa scores the winner midway through the second half, after Wesley Sneijder tallies one for the Netherlands before the break. Villa takes the Golden Ball trophy and brings peace to long-feuding Barcelona and Real Madrid fans at least for one magical night. Diego Luna plays Villa in the film adaptation of Spain's run to the cup, and Penelope Cruz plays the love interest.
Greg Lalas, editor in chief
Netherlands 1, Spain 2. Over the past two games, la Furia Roja have gradually picked up their form. Xavi, Andrés Iniesta and Villa are a trio that can score on any defense, and the back line has conceded only two goals in six games. Yes, the Dutch have Sneijder and Robben, but after that, they are merely above average as opposed to being best in class like the Spanish. Best in class always trumps above average.
Jason Saghini, ExtraTime Radio
Netherlands 0, Spain 1. Spain in a tight one. As much offensive talent that these teams have, it's the final. The WORLD CUP FINAL. Nobody wants to make the mistake. Nobody wants to be the goat. Spain's defense will prove best as they have throughout the tournament and for his sake, I hope Fernando Torres can find the net to quiet all the doubters and erase the taste of what has to have been a bittersweet month so far.
Fidencio Enriquez, new media editor
Netherlands 2, Spain 3, in extra time. The Dutchies are bound for a loss, and Spain play better as a team. Vicente del Bosque will put his faith in Fernando Torres, and “el Niño” will answer with the game-winning goal. He will go from being the most criticized Spanish player to having a statue built in Madrid's Plaza Mayor.
Final tally
Netherlands 1, Spain 6
