Spain (and also the Netherlands) for decades always were candidates to win the tournament. Maybe not favourites but always dark horses with a decent chance to win. But time and again they crashed out early, never living up to their potential. Partly because they always had great individuals but never were able to form a whole team (and the two big Spanish teams often relying on foreign players, same as in England).
It changed decidedly a few years ago for Spain. As you probably have heard they are the reigning European champions. And considering that the semi-finals of the WC four years ago consisted of four European teams and this year of three you can imagine how tough the Euro Cup is. Incidentally, yesterday's game was a repeat of the last Euro final, same teams, same score, similar game. You can call it déjà-vu. So yesterday's result isn't a total surprise. Even if I hoped for a different outcome. :)