Spain succumb to success fatigue!

What's wrong with Spain? The players, who mesmerised the world football for six years, are suddenly out of their elements. It's hard for pundits and fans to believe. But the sad reality is that the defending World Cup and back-to-back European Champions crashed out of the tournament even before playing their last group match against Australia.

Chile's forward Eduardo Vargas (L) scores past Spain's goalkeeper and captain Iker Casillas (C) during a Group B football match between Spain and Chile in the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 18, 2014. Photo: Getty Images

Being considered for long to be one of the greatest sides in the history of football, Vicente del Bosque's squad entered the World Cup with an expectation to repeat the feat. And who won't expect it? Which team has so many stars to boast of? But what followed in the group stage sent shockwaves through world football. Spain not only lost both games, but were simply outclassed. They scored only one goal but swallowed down seven against the Netherlands and Chile.

So, what has led to such a downhill fall? How could such a talented team bow out so early in the group stage?

It was true that the draw was tough, the Netherlands were losing finalists in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and Chile were excellent attacking side. But the reality is that the Netherlands and Chile played up to their billings, but Spain could not.

Spain simply failed to play like Spain. And, at times, it seemed they were expecting to cruise through the group phase automatically. The overconfidence looked apparent in their passing, which seemed erratic compared to how they played in Euro 2012 and the 2010 World Cup. Were they resting on their laurels? If not, where has their hunger gone?

Somehow, Spain lost the edge and looked afraid of attacking. We could see glimpses of eye-pleasing tiki-taka passes, dribbling, tackling and dodging. But none of del Bosque's men were interested in attacking.  Not a single Spanish player looked menacing inside the opponent's D-box and keen on sending the ball into the net. 

Players aside, del Bosque possibly became all too predictable as a coach. His rivals could read him like an open book. With the exception of striker Diego Costa, the selection of team and playing strategy were almost similar to that of 2010. Spain probably needed a new coach and a shakeup with young players like Jese, Asier Illaramendi, and Alvaro Morata to throw off the competition.

Was goalkeeper Iker Casillas any better against Chile following his humiliation by the Dutch? A million dollar question is that why del Bosque took the risk of playing him again. Though Casillas is one of the best goalkeepers in the world, Pepe Reina would have served Spain better under this circumstance.

The run of Spain's golden generation would have come to an end in some days and in some ways. And the day, seems to me, June 19, when Spain turns over to a new chapter and a new beginning.

Honestly, it makes me very sad. We have possibly seen the last of Andres Iniesta, Xavi Hernandez, Gerard Pique or Sergio Ramos at the world stage.  Football has been so entertaining for the last few years because of you. Good luck guys!