The Netherlands have come close twice before of course, in 1974 and 1978 where they lost to hosts West Germany and Argentina respectively, but since then they have under-achieved in the World Cup.
Spain had never even been to a semi-final before this tournament, but as European champions probably enter Sunday's final as favourites.
I saw an amazing stat on Wednesday, that this will be the first World Cup final in history not to feature one of Brazil, Argentina, Italy or (West) Germany, which speaks volumes for the dominance of those countries in the global game over the last 80 years.
It was slightly ironic that Spain's 1-0 win over Germany was scored by such a straightforward goal. The Spanish pride themselves on the intricacies of their passing, of their brilliant movement off the ball and the creative flair that the likes of Xavi, Andres Iniesta and David Villa bring to the game.
A wonder then that their winning goal came from a corner that was headed home by centre-back Carles Puyol (yes, Carles, not Carlos, strange I know). It was a gritty, functional goal that was almost the 'anti-Spain', but it shows this side can eke out victories a number of ways.
The Germans should be applauded for their tournament, where they were magnificent in scoring four goals each against Australia, England and Argentina on their way to the semi-finals.
This young side will only get better and learn from the disappointment of this experience. They should be a major force in 2014, and could be a side that goes on to dominate world football for some time.
But before all that they do have a third/fourth play-off to play in PE (utterly ridiculous choice of venue) against the Uruguayans on Saturday where they will fight for the bronze medal.
Nobody really wants to play these types of games, but it will be a chance for those in the squad who have not had a run yet to get a feel for Africa's first World Cup.
Images sourced from www.fifa.com
