Spanish midfielder Iniesta retires from international football

July 2, 2018 Yesterday, Spanish footballer Andrés Iniesta announced retirement from international football. The midfielder made the announcement after Spain lost to Russia in the Last 16 match of the FIFA World Cup. Speaking to the reporters, Iniesta said, Since 34-year-old Iniesta made his international debut, he has featured in 131 games, scoring thirteen goals. Iniesta also scored the winning goal against the Netherlands in the 2010 World Cup final. With the international team, Iniesta has won two trophies in 2008 and 2012 as well as the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

After the match, Iniesta said, "It's true that this was my last match with the national team. On an individual level, it brings an end to a marvellous chapter of my life. It's a difficult moment, one we've experienced before, but we weren't capable of that little bit extra. My personal cycle ends here after a long time [playing for Spain], but everything has its beginning and end. It isn't the farewell I dreamed about, but football and life can be like that."

Iniesta's last match for Spain went on to a penalty shootout against Russia after a 1–1 draw at the end of extra time. Iniesta was the first to take the penalty kick and scored the spot kick.