Spaniards bow out with barely a whimper

With its superstars aging and its loyal coach slow to blend in young talent, Spain's glorious reign as the superpower of world soccer was bound to end.

The Spanish weren't favored to repeat as World Cup champions. But few expected the utter collapse that ended on Wednesday with a 2-0 loss to Chile, knocking Spain from contention and ending the run of the greatest team of the new century.

Chile's pace and skill produced a dominating win similar to so many Spanish victories over the past six years. Spain was outplayed, out-run and out-fought.